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Rock physics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:14:37
Abstract
The course of Petrophyics, as a link between structural geology, petrology and geophysics, will give a basis for the geological interpretation of the geophysical investigation in terms of nature and structure of the upper crust and of the entire lithosphere. More emphasis will be given to the seismic properties and density of rocks, in order to aid the interpretation of seismic profiling.
Objective
The course of Petrophyics, as a link between structural geology, petrology and geophysics, will give a basis for the geological interpretation of the geophysical investigation in terms of nature and structure of the upper crust and of the entire lithosphere. More emphasis will be given to the seismic properties and density of rocks, in order to aid the interpretation of seismic profiling, both for oil industry and for crustal cross section. Both numerical modeling and laboratory investigation will be the basis for the course. First the different properties will be described in general terms. Then the effect of intensive variable such as pressure, temperature and pore pressure will be discussed with practical examples. The effect of microstructure and other matrix properties will be analyzed with the aid of modeling.
Content
The course will consists of normal lessons, and of laboratory sessions (at the Laboratory of Experimental Deformation of the Geological Institute, ETH), where it will be possible to take part to direct measurements of density, porosity, seismic velocity on rock samples at room pressure, and to determine the seismic anisotropy etc. Moreover, it will be compared the effect of different thermal conductivity on rocks. Other experimental parts will regard the mechanical properties and the link between dynamic and static moduli and the rock permeability. Finally it will be discussed the effect of changing scale, going from the small scale laboratory sample to the scale of the geophysical investigation.
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 | Rock physics |
|
2 h weekly |