John J. Walsh
Fault Analysis Group
University College Dublin
2007-08 Tour Information
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GO TO: Biography | Abstract 1
The Structure, Content and Growth of Fault Zones Within Sedimentary Sequences
Existing models for the growth of fault zones associated with normal faulting of sedimentary sequences range from those of conceptual models for fault zone architecture, incorporating components such as fault core and damage zone, through to a variety of fault wear models to explain established quantitative correlations between fault displacement and fault rock thickness. Despite the importance of faults in a variety of application areas, no unified model for fault zone evolution has been developed which incorporates the broad range of fault-related features and processes.
This talk outlines the main characteristics of fault zones developed within a broad range of host rock sequences and at different deformation conditions. High quality outcrop constraints illustrate how the combined effect of host rock rheology and prevailing deformation processes is capable of generating the full range of fault rock types, including those which have a major impact on hydrocarbon flow, such as shale/clay smears, on the one hand, through to shaley fault gouges, on the other.
Exploring links between the scaling of different fault zone components and fault displacement, a quantitative model for fault zone evolution is described which attempts to reconcile fault zone structure with the repetitive operation of a small number of processes, including fault segmentation and refraction, and asperity removal. Despite the inherent complexities of fault zones, new approaches are briefly described which are capable of incorporating the effects of faults in both hydrocarbon exploration and production models.