Definition of pillow structure

A structure, observed in certain extrusive igneous rocks, that is characterized by discontinuous pillow-shaped masses ranging in size from a few centimeters to a meter or more in greatest dimension (commonly between 30 cm and 60 cm). The pillows are close-fitting, the concavities of one matching the convexities of another. The spaces between the pillows are few and are filled either with material of the same composition as the pillows, with clastic sediments, or with scoriaceous material. Grain sizes within the pillows tend to decrease toward the exterior. Pillow structures are considered to be the result of subaqueous extrusion, as evidenced by their association with sedimentary deposits, usually of deep-sea origin.

See Also: pillow lava, mammillary structure

Ref: AGI