Structural analyses and fracture network characterisation: Seven pillars of wisdom

摘要

Seven distinct types of structural analysis can be defined, each with their own data and uses: (1) basic geological descriptions; (2) geometries and topology; (3) age relationships; (4) kinematics; (5) tectonics; (6) mechanics and (7) fluid flow. We illustrate these types of analysis using the example of faults and fractures, which typically form networks of interacting and connected segments. A framework for describing and characterising fault and fracture networks is presented for each of the structural analysis types.