509357 - GEOLOGICAL MODELLING

The course aims at showing to the students the use of different geological dataset (mainly maps, reflection seismic profiles, geological survey, subsoil data, remote sensing data from photogrammetry, field data) with the aim to produce geological models. Another objective is to evaluate the available data spatial distribution and quality to find the best way to use them to build 2D, 3D geological models. The reliability and uncertainties of a geological model will be evaluated looking at data amount/quality/distribution. Surface (field data) and subsurface data will be correlated in order to build geological models incorporating direct and interpolated/indirect data. Case studies will be showed in order to perform advanced geological measures and analysis like time-depth conversion, decompaction, structure contour mapps and fence diagrams.

Physical models describing the mechanical processes leading the rock deformation are presented and discussed in order to understand the present-day structure, as well as their evolution. Petrological, geochemical and geophysical data will be integrated to understand the tectonic processes from micro- to regional scale.
At the end of the course the students are expected to be able to:
1) Read and interpret (at a basic level) a reflection seismic profile
2) Build up a geological dataset and evaluate its quality
3) Interpolate data to build a 3D geological model
4) Check the quality/reliability of a geological model starting from the dataset on the bases of which it has been built up
5) Evaluate precision and accuracy of the geological model
6) Connect surface and subsurface data
7) Know the concepts at the base of time-depth conversion and decompaction processes
8) Perform geological measures and analysis on geological models like slip distribution, curvature analysis, dip analysis
9)Recognize mechanisms leading geological structures
10) build 3D digital models with photogrammetric techniques
11) interpret the geological structure from digital models
12) digitizalize discontinuities on digital models (stratification, schistosity, fold structures, fractures and faults)
13) interpret the network of fractures and faults in 3D space
14) recognize and define the mechanisms that guided the formation of geological structures
15) Define the physical relationships that govern tectonic processes
16) insert the tectonic structures into the regional tectonic context