The analogue modelling laboratory at the research unit Tectonics and Geodynamics (TaG) at RWTH Aachen University uses experimental techniques to investigate, analyse and compare the spatio-temporal evolution of geological deformation structures. Our main pillar resides in a variety of versatile and adaptable deformation apparatus, which allow us to simulate a wide range of tectonic and geodynamic processes.
We take advantage of innovative Particle Imaging Velocimetry (PIV) and image correlation techniques to process the data acquired during experiments to monitor deformation in high spatial and temporal resolution. Specific laboratory setups have been adapted such that additional interpretation of internal deformation may be obtained through a CT-scanner. We have a simple shear box and a Zwick Roell Z100 press for testing materials.
Our group is currently pursuing four main lines of research:
- Thrust and triangle zone experiments; employing a compressional deformation rig that allows the simulation of thin- or thick-skinned fold-thrust-belts.
- Basement fault reactivation in fold-and-thrust belts; multi-phase shortening of thick-skinned and basement-involved thin-skinned tectonics, with a focus on inherited structures.
- Clay smear development; experiments that investigate fault kinematics in dilatant normal fault zones that develop in layered stratigraphy.
- Continental extension; a new apparatus will be built with the objective of modelling multiple rift geometries, focusing on the effects of pre-existing structures and/or heterogeneities at a crustal and lithospheric-scale.
- Salt tectonics; focussing on ‘salt - rock’ interface behaviour around salt diapirs in buoyancy-driven and compressional or extensional systems.
Additionally, the research group at TaG will continuously look for cross-validation and benchmarking of experimental results by means of state-of-the-art 2D and 3D numerical simulations, with the overall aim of following an integrated modelling approach.
We are in the application process to become part of the European Plate Observing System (EPOS) Thematic Core Service (TCS) Multi-scale laboratories (MSL) community with a level of involvement 1b (Data and TNA Provider), with the purpose of fostering collaborative research and sharing the facilities to external researchers.
Additional information, including details on laboratory setups and PIV analysis media, as well as research outcomes from our laboratory, can be made available by contacting us. (tag@tag.rwth-aachen.de)
