Geologic Studies

Physical Models

Mathematical Models

Kinematic Models

Applied Geodynamics Laboratory (AGL) Research
Research at the Applied Geodynamics Laboratory is of four types: physical modeling, mathematical modeling, kinematic modeling and geologic studies. These four approaches are integrated to develop new concepts related to the origin, mechanics, and evolution of salt structures and their adjacent sediments.

Large-scale seismic-based geologic studies began in 1998. In these studies, Martin Jackson and Mike Hudec use concepts developed in other parts of the AGL research program to analyze salt-tectonic processes of entire salt basins or large parts of those basins. These studies are based on 2-D and 3-D seismic data, borehole data, geologic maps, gravity and magnetic maps, and previously published information. Studies in the onshore and offshore Kwanza Basin, Angola and in the deepwater Lower Congo Basin, Gabon, are now complete. Current projects are underway in the Gulf of Mexico and offshore Mauritania.

Tim Dooley joined the group in November 2003, from Royal Holloway, University of London, and supervises the physical modeling laboratories. The laboratories have been refitted with newly designed deformation and sectioning rigs and associated equipment to accommodate models up to 1.5 m wide by 2.0 m long. New rigs are modular which allows a wide of variety of structural styles to be modeled with one frame. New models are recorded by high-resolution digital photography and animated to monitor progressive structural growth.