Géosciences Montpellier
Université de Montpellier
Campus triolet cc060
Place eugène bataillon
34095 montpellier cedex05
FRANCE
Where to find us
The Deformation theme corresponds to a major transverse axis at Géosciences Montpellier, as the dynamics of the lithosphere and mantle form the core of the research activities of several teams. The wide range of expertise and methodological approaches available at GM enables us to cover a very broad spectrum of time and space scales, from orogenic cycles to seismic activity on faults, from the propagation of deformation in mountain ranges to atomic defects in minerals and rock fracturing, from subduction and mantle convection to the kinematics of tectonic plates. The intermediate scales identified are (a) feedbacks between mineralogical transformations, presence of fluids and deformation, (b) rheology and kinematics of faults, and (c) crustal deformation at basin or mountain range scale. Together, they form an extremely comprehensive whole covering temporal and spatial ranges spanning several orders of magnitude, and deformation domains ranging from Fragile to Ductile under HT/BT and HP/BP conditions.
On the scale of Crystal and Rock
The issues addressed include the localization of deformation under different conditions of pressure and temperature, in the presence or absence of fluid, and time-dependent deformation.
On the scale of crustal and lithospheric faults
Scientific objectives include long-term fault dynamics on the scale of the seismic cycle, associated damage processes, the rheology of the brittle-ductile transition and stress-fluid-strain relationships.
At the scale of orogenic prisms and basins
Our research focuses on the processes controlling the propagation of deformation at tectonic plate boundaries and in intracontinental domains, and on interactions with deep mantle and surface processes.
On the scale of Tectonic Plates
Research focuses on the geodynamic processes controlling the kinematics and very large-scale deformation of tectonic plates in relation to mantle convection.
Tools
A highly multi-disciplinary approach is used:
- Field studies (structural geology, geomorphology, geophysics, geodesy, seismology) and analysis of natural samples (Petrology, Micro-Tectonics).
- Laboratory experiments (Paterson press, EBSD stage, analog modeling).
Numerical simulations (modeling, inversion). - Dating (Geochronology and Thermochronology).
Worksites
Deformation research activities are largely based on the acquisition of geological and geophysical data in the field:
- More than thirty study sites on every continent (Europe, Central and East Asia, North and South America, Africa, Oceania, etc.).
- Covering various geological/geodynamic contexts (Orogenesis, Subduction, Rifting, Post-Glacial rebound, Gravity instabilities, …).
- State-of-the-art field acquisition techniques (terrestrial Lidar, Drone, 3D scanner, kinematic GPS, ….)
Our strong points
Multi-disciplinary, multi-scale (spatial and temporal) scientific expertise
Complementary methodological approaches: fieldwork, analysis, experimentation, analog and digital modeling
Numerous national and international research projects
Highlights
Seminars
Jeudi 31 Août à 14h (Salle Grenat) : Corentin Noel, candidat CNRS, nous présentera ses travaux de recherche, The effects of fluid pressure variations on brittle-fault and ductile-rock-mass mechanical behaviour.
Involved Persons
The deformation theme brings together some forty people, including researchers and teacher-researchers in the French West Indies and French Guiana, 7 IT/BIATS and 2 CNRS emeritus researchers. The group is equivalent to 17 full-time positions.
THEME ANIMATORS : Stéphane Dominguez & Roger Soliva