Introduction to Principles of Structural Geology

Introduction to Principles of Structural Geology

ENRECA Project BMV II: Course outline

Course instructor: Dr. Stig A. Schack Pedersen, GEUS

Course location: Hanoi University of Mining and Geology

Date: 16–18th January 08

The interpretation and evaluation of subsurface geology may, in many cases be enhanced by the use of outcrop data. Data from outcrops closely adjacent to deep basins may often be obtained by relatively in-expensive activity compared to conventional seismic surveys and drilling. Thus, the utilisation of such data may be a very valuable contribution to a regional conventional data set. Structural geology provides the background and skills for describing outcrops and interpreting the data and combining the data into 3-D models, which gives the possibility of predicting the subsurface geology.

The main objective of this course is to exemplify how such data may be obtained by:

1. The study of exposed sections, construction of cross sections and measuring structural data;

2. Interpretation of cross sections from shallow wells (bore holes);

3. Construction of 3-D models;

4. Reading and compiling geological maps;

5. Predictions from structural geological models;

6. Describing and interpreting dynamic models for evaluating and concluding decisions concerning subsurface exploration and exploitation.

Overview of the course:

The course will cover the following main topics.

1. Introduction to the 3-D processes: Deposition, Deformation and Destruction (sedimentation, alteration and erosion)

2. Structural analysis of folds and faults

3. Extensional deformation, from normal faults to landslides

4. Compressional deformation, from thin-skinned thrust faulting to superimposed deformation.

5. Transform deformation, from pull apart basins to transpression thrusting

6. Syn-tectonic depositional systems

7. Dynamic interpretation of poly-deformational events

8. Hands-on exercises

Who may attend

The course is designed to be relevant for geoscientist students on a bachelor level, who focuses on mining exploration and hydrocarbon research. Furthermore it is relevant for students focusing on environmental mapping and area planning as well as students who want a geological background for working with geotechnical problems and geohazard risks.