Electromechanical phenomena associated with earthquakes

This article reviews the field, laboratory, and theoretical investigations made concerning different electromechanical phenomena associated with earthquakes. It discusses laboratory measurements of electrical resistivity of rocks stressed up to fracture, particular attention being paid to the interpretation of results according to the diffusion-dilatancy theory. This is followed by the discussion of field measurements of electrical characteristics of rocks in seismic areas in connections with seismic activity in these regions. Piezoelectric and electrostrictive phenomena are briefly discussed, and also a theoretical model of electro-elastic effects associated with an earthquake source. The last part concerns electrokinetic phenomena in porous rocks, caused by the diffusion of fluids into the dilatant focal region. The divergence of opinion about the physical models of the earthquake process is emphasized.