FaultLab: Structural Geology
Geophysical models that explore the deep rheology of continental-scale fault zones often lack realistic physical parameters that define the actual geological behaviour expected for a specific fault. The geological component of this project aims to bridge the gap between geophysical- and geological- derived seismic models of continental scale fault zones by providing lithology and deformation state specific elastic properties for the Eskisehir Fault Zone (Uludag Massif), a field-based analogue of the North Anatolian Fault Zone (NAFZ), Turkey.
Elastic and seismic properties will be estimated from the crystallographic preferred orientation (CPO) of individual and combined mineral phases measured via electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD) in the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The data will provide valuable constraints for our understanding of the rheology of the continental crust and ductile fault zones and will feed directly into geodynamic modelling of the NAFZ, incorporating data from a seismic array to be established as part of the overall project.