Salt Weathering in Hot Deserts: Observations on the Design of Simulation Experiments

The design and underlying assumptions of published works on salt weathering simulation are reviewed. It is argued that studies have tended to demonstrate the efficacy of salt weathering under conditions which owe more to experimental procedure than conditions experienced in hot deserts. As a result patterns and rates of weathering are produced which do not necessarily correspond to those observed in nature. Recommendations are made concerning the choice of suitable temperature and humidity regimes, salts, and salt application techniques which might produce rock breakdown more consistent with field observations.