M1 - Geodynamics and Geomaterials

This course introduces the fundamentals of structural geology at the master’s level. It focuses on the analysis of various features and mechanisms of deformation in the Earth’s crust, from the surface down to the base of the crust. Deformation is explored through field examples, samples, thin sections, and experiments. These observations are compared with theory and with analog, analytical, and numerical models.
Key topics covered:
(1) analysis of deformation at all scales, and associated tectonic regimes
(2) typology and kinematics of structural features (e.g., faults, fractures, folds, shear zones),
(3) Equilibrium structural cross-section,
(4) Relationship between different scales and depths of deformation,
(5) Different rheological and structural contexts (brittle and ductile structural levels, compressive and extensional regimes, homogeneous and stratified media),
(6) Presence of fluids and their role in deformation.

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This module aims to provide the fundamentals of geophysical imaging of geological formations, from near the surface to the lithosphere scale. We will focus here on seismological methods (volume and surface wave tomography, receiver functions, ambient noise), gravimetry, and magnetotellurics. We will also present the fundamentals of reflection seismics (acquisition and processing). A case study conducted in a lab session will highlight the importance of combining these methods to best characterize the subsurface and its properties, particularly with regard to fluids.

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This fieldwork course takes place at the beginning of our Master’s program. It aims to characterize the sequence of processes involved in the formation and subsequent dismantling of the Variscan orogen through a thematic study of the Montagne Noire massif. Particular attention will be paid to (1) the study of deformation of the sedimentary cover and the geodynamic evolution of the basins; (2) the analysis of ductile deformation and associated metamorphism in the deepest crustal levels; and (3) the study of late-orogenic basins. This course consists of three successive stages: the preparatory phase involving the study of cartographic materials in the classroom, fieldwork and the writing of a report, and finally a critical review of the bibliography.

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This course unit provides an overview of the mechanical behavior of rocks based on the results of laboratory-scale studies. The different types of laboratory experiments are described, and the various mechanical behaviors are discussed and illustrated with experimental data. Hydrostatic compression, uniaxial compression, and triaxial compression tests are thus described. Elastic, plastic, and viscous behaviors are examined, and the combination of these behaviors is applied to describe rock behavior.
Concepts related to the behavior of discontinuities, as well as fracture mechanics, are discussed. The concepts of creep and delayed behavior will also be addressed to examine the long-term behavior of rock masses.
To quantitatively analyze mechanical behavior, the concepts of stress and strain tensors will be introduced. These will enable the introduction of elastic strain calculations based on elastic moduli. The calculation of stresses on planes, based on knowledge of the stress tensor, will be addressed in the general case and illustrated using Mohr’s diagram.

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Contributions of geochemistry, geothermochronology, and petrology to our understanding:
- of the major stages in the formation, deformation, and evolution of sedimentary basins and their underlying strata
- of the formation, origin, age, and evolution of metal deposits

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