This dataset provides friction data from ring-shear tests on corundum sand “NKF120” used in analogue modelling of tectonic processes as a rock analogue for “strong” or “high density” layers in the earth’s upper crust (e.g. Klinkmüller et al., 2016) or as an additive to PDMS silicone oil to increase its density and non-linearity (Zwaan et al., 2018).

According to our analysis the material shows a Mohr-Coulomb behaviour characterized by a linear failure envelope. Peak, dynamic and reactivation friction coefficients of corundum sand are µP = 0.75, µD = 0.57, and µR = 0.62, respectively (Table 5). Cohesion of the material ranges between 100-150 Pa. The material shows a minor rate-weakening of ~1% per ten-fold change in shear velocity v and a stick-slip behaviour at low shear velocities.

The tested bulk material consists of corundum sand with grain size of 90-120 µm (Table 1). Corundum sand is produced as industrial abrasive materials and sold e.g. by the company Nico Bosse Strahlmittel Berlin. The data presented here are derived by ring shear testing using a SCHULZE RST-01.pc (Schulze, 1994, 2003, 2008) at HelTec, the Laboratory for experimental tectonics at the Helmholtz Center Potsdam – GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam, Germany.