The course concentrates on the geometry, mechanics, kinematics and dynamics of structures developed in deformed rocks on the meso- to micro-scale (i.e. from outcrop and handspecimen to grain scale), and on how the analysis of these structures, in space and time, facilitates reconstruction of the tectonic evolution of crustal or mantle terrain. The course will be given as an advanced level Structural Geology course, assuming deforming familiarity with basic characteristics and significance of deformation structures in rocks.
The course consists of three parts:
1) Analysis of meso-scale structures
Geometric, kinematic and dynamic aspects of folds, boudinage and mullion structures, vein systems, faults and shear zones. Role of mechanical instabilities in structure development. Inversion of fault slip data to obtain principal stress orientations.
2) Analysis of rock micro-structures
Geometric, kinematic and dynamic aspects of foliations, lineations, preferred orientations of grains and crystallographic directions, porphyroclast systems. Problems with kinematic indicators. Use and limitations of microstructure paleo-stress indicators (deformation twins, subgrain and recrystallized grain size). Relations between rock matrix and metamorphic porphyroblasts, reconstruction of temperature and pressure during deformation applying microstructural analysis techniques.
3) Case studies of deformed crustal and mantle terrains
Long-lived lithospheric fault/shear zones (initiation and evolution). Evolution of LP-HT metamorphic terrains. Structural analysis of mantle terrains.
Aims
By the end of the course the student:
- has build upon his basic skills of description and qualitative analysis of deformed rocks, and can quantitatively analyse geometric, kinematic and dynamic aspects of deformation structures on outcrop to grain-scale;
- has insight into mechanical aspects of structure development and the role of instabilities;
- is able to analyse interrelated thermal and kinematic histories of deformed rocks;
- can apply structural analysis in the tectonic reconstruction of deformed crustal/mantle terrain.
Assessment and grading
- Written exam = 50% (min mark 5.5 required to pass);
- Practical report (weekly) = 35% (average mark 5.5 or higher required to pass);
- Home work/assignments (weekly) = 15% average mark 5.5 or higher required to pass).
The final course grade will be satisfactory (6 or higher; pass) or unsatisfactory (5 or lower; fail). A final grade 6 or higher will be rounded off using 1 decimal. Al final grade of lower than 5 will have any decimal places. In case one of the above parts is marked < 5.5, one possibility will be given to upgrade (supplementary test; 'aanvullende toets' in Dutch). Character and content of the extra test will be decided in due time. If the student passes the supplementary test, a final course grade of 6 will be recorded in the student progress administration system. Two parts marked < 5.5 imply a 'fail' for the course, no supplementary test possible.