VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Texture analysis
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:14:37
Abstract
This course gives a tool to describe and interpret microstructures of deformed rocks. It begins with the definition of fabric elements and classification of cleavages. The second part deals with the relation between fabric, microstructure and deformation mechanisms. Finally will be examined the microstructures of high strain zones and the tools to quantify fabric and microstructure.
Objective
This course gives a tool to describe and interpret microstructures of deformed rocks. It begins with the definition of fabric elements and classification of cleavages. The second part deals with the relation between fabric, microstructure and deformation mechanisms. Finally will be examined the microstructures of high strain zones and the tools to quantify fabric and microstructure. A regional example will be studied at the end of the course.
Content
1) Terminology: grain, grain shape, grain boundaries, cracks, cleavages. Classification of cleavages. 2) Recall Foliation mechanisms and their microstructures: a. passive rotation (examples of mica in marbles) b. dissolution and precipitation (+Q and M domains in schists) c. nucleation and growth (metamorphism, e.g. low grade schists) d. crystal plastic deformation (e.g. calcite, quartz) e. recrystallization (dynamic) (e.g. calcite) 3) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO a. Cataclastic deformation (cataclastic flow, trails of fluid inclusions, interaction with fluids and melt, pseudotackylytes, breccias) 4) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO b. Intracrystalline plasticity (monomineralic calcite, olivine, quartz. microstructures and LPO, progressive deformation in simple and pure shear) 5) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO c. Diffusive mass transfer in presence of fluids (pressure solution) d. Solid state e. Grain boundary sliding and superplastic flow (calcite) 6) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO f. Dynamic recrystallization (eg. Calcite and olivine): rotation Rxx and GB migration Rxx. 7) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO g. Twinning (calcite, as thermometer; plagioclase) h. Recovery and static recrystallization 8) Deformation mechanisms, their microstructures and LPO i. Deformation of polymineralic rocks (e.g. quartzofeldspatic and schists) 9) Microstructures in Fault rocks a. Fault gouge b. Mylonites (evolution of microstructures and LPO with progressive strain. Natural examples and the experimental results from torsion testing: calcite and olivine). c. Sense of shear: Matrix, Porphiroclasts etc. 10) Techniques for determination of SPO and LPO. Examples using image analysis tools and U-stage.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Texture Analysis |
|
2 h weekly |