Geological deformation and transformation of rocks
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Main research interests

We are interested in understanding how the Earth's lithosphere deforms on all temporal and spatial scales using the rock’s deformation record. We are especially focusing on episodic deformation and the interplay between deformation and mineral reactions as well as the influence of this interplay on the rates of the various processes.

  • Episodic deformation and mineral reactions below hypocentral depths and the implications on the rheology of the lithosphere
  • Deformation and mineral reactions in subduction zones and the implications on the burial and exhumation processes
  • Impact geology: shock effects and how do rocks and minerals react on extreme loading rates
  • Quantitative microfabric analysis using polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission microscopy and related analytical techniques

Open Student Projects

  • Subduction and Exhumation of (U)HP-metamorphic rocks: Dora Maira, Western Alps, Crete, WGC Norway
  • High-temperature metamorphism during crustal contraction: Migmatitic metapelite xenolithes of the El Hoyazo, SE-Spain
  • Retrograde metamorphism and deformation: Seconda Zona Kinzigitica: Sesia Zone, Western Alps
  • Crystal growth during deformation: Quartz vein formation related to extensional shear bands in creeping metapelites, Crete, Greece
  • Shear zone rocks: Bavarian Pfahl, Bavarian forest, Crete/Talea Ori, Silvretta basal thrust
  • Impact geology and shock effects: Ries impact structure/Germany, Vredefort impact structure/S-Africa, Rochechouart/France
  • Decoupling of crystalline nappes - Pseudotachylytes from the Silvretta basal thrust, Central Alps

Methods:

  • Field work
  • Polarized light microscopy
  • Electron microscopy (EMP, SEM/EDS/EBSD/CL, FIB, TEM)
  • Raman spectroscopy (in cooperation with Dr. Melanie Kaliwoda)

Requirements:

  • Interest in the rheological behaviour of rocks at depths
  • Interest in tectonics
  • Interest in electron microscopy, EBSD-technique
  • Basic knowledge of polarized light microscopy
  • Basic knowledge in tectonics, structural geology, petrography