Deformation Mechanisms Rheology And Tectonics

This collection of papers presents recent advances in the study of deformation mechanisms and rheology and their applications to tectonics. Many of the contributions exploit new petrofabric techniques, particularly electron backscatter diffraction, to help understand the evolution of rock microstructure and mechanical properties. Papers in the first section (lattice preferred orientations and anisotropy ) show a growing emphasis on the determination of elastic properties from petrofabrics, from which acoustic properties can be computed for comparison with in-situ seismic measurements. Such research will underpin geodynamic interpretation of large-scale active tectonics. Contributions in the second section (microstructures, mechanisms and rheology) study the relations between microstructural evolution during deformation and mechanical properties.

This book consists of 18 papers on deformation mechanisms, rheology and tectonics. The main approaches include experimental rock deformation, microstructural analysis, field structural studies, analogue and numerical modelling. New results on various topics are presented, ranging from brittle to ductile deformation and grain-scale to lithospherescale mechanisms. The volume contains review papers on several major current topics, such as the rheology of the lithospheric mantle and the mechanisms of exhumation of high-pressure tectonic units, as well as research papers on kinematic and mechanical analysis of rock deformation and related new techniques. Several contributions emphasize the increasing ability and wish of researchers to strengthen the links between small-scale physical mechanisms and large-scale tectonics. The volume will be of interest to academic and industrial researchers in the fields of structural geology, interactions between metamorphism, fluids and deformation, and large-scale tectonic processes.

The motion and deformation of rocks are processes of fundamental importance in shaping the Earth, from outer crustal layers to the deep mantle. Reconstructions of the evolution of the Earth therefore require detailed knowledge of the geometry of deformation structures and their relative timing, of the motions leading to deformation structures and of the mechanisms governing these motions. This volume contains a collection of 22 papers on field, experimental and theoretical studies that add to our knowledge of these processes.

This volume presents a selection of papers showing the current focus of studies of deformation structures and processes within the continental crust. The selected contributions use a large range of analytical techniques suited to the full range of structure sizes and fine-tuned to the physical process that controls the deformation, from the grain boundary at the micro-scale, the lithological contact at the meso-scale to the plate boundary at the global scale. The papers in the volume are grouped into three sections relating to specific lines of research within the analysis of rock deformation structures and processes, in particular in respect to the continental crust: structures within shear zones and faults; magmatic structures, and microstructures and rheology. These sections include papers describing field studies, experimental rock deformation and numerical modelling of deformation processes.

AN INTEGRATED FRAMEWORK FOR STRUCTURAL GEOLOGY A modern and practice-oriented approach to structural geology An Integrated Framework for Structural Geology: Kinematics, Dynamics, and Rheology of Deformed Rocks builds a framework for structural geology from geometrical description, kinematic analysis, dynamic evolution, and rheological investigation of deformed rocks. The unique approach taken by the book is to integrate these principles of continuum mechanics with the description of rock microstructures and inferences about deformation mechanisms. Field, theoretical and laboratory approaches to structural geology are all considered, including the application of rock mechanics experiments to nature. Readers will also find: Three case studies that illustrate how the framework can be applied to deformation at different levels in the crust and in an applied structural geology context Hundreds of detailed, two-color illustrations of exceptional clarity, as well as many microstructural and field photographs The quantitative basis of structural geology delivered through clear mathematics Written for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in geology, An Integrated Framework for Structural Geology will also earn a place in the libraries of practicing geologists with an interest in a one-stop resource on structural geology.

This book is a systematic guide to the recognition and interpretation of deformation microstructures and mechanisms in minerals and rocks at the scale of a thin section. Diagnostic features of microstructures and mechanisms are emphasized, and the subject is extensively illustrated with high-quality color and black and white photomicrographs, and many clear diagrams. After introducing three main classes of deformation microstructures and mechanisms, low- to high-grade deformation is presented in a logical sequence in Chapters 2 to 5. Magmatic/submagmatic deformation, shear sense indicators, and shock microstructures and metamorphism are described in Chapters 6 to 8, which are innovative chapters in a structural geology textbook. The final chapter shows how deformation microstructures and mechanisms can be used quantitatively to understand the behavior of the earth. Recent experimental research on failure criteria, frictional sliding laws, and flow laws is summarized in tables, and palaeopiezometry is discussed. Audience: This book is essential to all practising structural and tectonic geologists who use thin sections, and is an invaluable research tool for advanced undergraduates, postgraduates, lecturers and researchers in structural geology and tectonics.

Lavishly illustrated in color, this textbook takes an applied approach to introduce undergraduate students to the basic principles of structural geology. The book provides unique links to industry applications in the upper crust, including petroleum and groundwater geology, which highlight the importance of structural geology in exploration and exploitation of petroleum and water resources. Topics range from faults and fractures forming near the surface to shear zones and folds of the deep crust. Students are engaged through examples and parallels drawn from practical everyday situations, enabling them to connect theory with practice. Containing numerous end-of-chapter problems, e-learning modules, and with stunning field photos and illustrations, this book provides the ultimate learning experience for all students of structural geology.