Elements of Crustal Geomechanics

A detailed introduction to the study of crustal geomechanics, particularly the seismogenic crust, with exercises, solutions, and field-based datasets.

François Henri Cornet (Author)

9780521875783, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 2 April 2015

490 pages, 232 b/w illus. 45 exercises
25.3 x 19.6 x 2.6 cm, 1.19 kg

'This book provides an excellent theoretical treatment of contemporary geomechanics - solid, fluid and thermal interactions in rocks accommodating rheology and rupture for static through dynamic conditions. Although presented at a high level, concepts are eminently accessible and aided by examples to highlight relevance in both geophysics and in engineering. This is destined to become a standard reference text for serious scholars spanning pure and applied geophysics through engineering geomechanics, with application to a process-based understanding in natural and engineered systems.' Derek Elsworth and Yves Guglielmi, Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources

This key textbook considers the mechanics of geomaterials at a wide range of scales, both in time and space. It provides a detailed introduction to the study of crustal geomechanics, focussing specifically on the seismogenic crust. The author demonstrates how continuum mechanics principles can provide efficient solutions to geomechanics problems at various scales, taking into account the multiphase characteristics of the geomaterials as well as discontinuities such as fractures and faults. Field and laboratory observations are combined with basic mathematical theory to build solutions with known levels of uncertainty. Particular consideration is given to the use of microseismicity. Case studies are provided, and practical results from numerical modelling are used to illustrate the applicability and limitations of current theories. Accessible explanations of mathematical formulations, convenient summaries of the key equations, and exercises make this a valuable reference for students and researchers in geomechanics, geophysics, structural geology and engineering.

Preface
1. Geomaterials and crustal geomechanics
2. Elements of rheology
3. Forces and stresses
4. Elements of kinematics
5. Elements of linear elasticity
6. From continuum mechanics to fluid mechanics
7. Elements of linear fracture mechanics
8. Laboratory investigations on geomaterials under compression
9. Homogenized geomaterials
10. Fractures and faults
11. Elements of seismology
12. Elements of solid-fluid interactions
13. Methods for stress fields evaluation from in situ observations
14. Elements of stress fields and crustal rheology
References
Appendix A. Elements of tensors in rectangular coordinates
Index.

Subject Areas: Petroleum technology [THFP], Earth sciences, geography, environment, planning [R], Geophysics [PHVG], Petroleum & oil industries [KNBP]