Key research themes
1. How can the modeling and mathematical framework of synsedimentary deformation incorporate multi-scale mechanical behaviors and structured heterogeneities?
This research theme focuses on developing and refining continuum and multiscale mechanical models that capture the complex interactions and deformations occurring synchronously with sedimentation. It involves bridging the microscale beam and fiber behaviors with mesoscale lattice and pantographic structures, as well as integrating structured deformation frameworks that account for submacroscopic slips, separations, and periodic heterogeneous microstructures. These approaches provide predictive, computationally efficient models for understanding deformation within evolving sedimentary environments influenced by heterogeneous materials and internal defects.
2. What computational and mathematical methods optimize deformation transport and morphing relevant to synsedimentary deformation analysis?
This theme explores advanced mathematical techniques for transporting deformations in size-and-shape spaces, morphing three-dimensional bodies through compatible distortions, and modeling complex deformation gradients for understanding morphodynamics. These methodologies are essential for quantifying deformation paths, minimizing deformation energy, and designing stress-free morphing patterns, which collectively improve the interpretation and simulation of synsedimentary deformation in geological materials.
3. How do large-scale wave dynamics and strain measurement techniques inform the study and quantification of synsedimentary deformation processes?
This theme involves the physical characterization of deformation as wave phenomena coupled with state-of-the-art measurement techniques for mapping large strains and displacements during synsedimentary deformation. It bridges theoretical wave-based elasticity frameworks with optical and computational methods that track nano- to macro-scale strain fields accurately, facilitating comprehensive real-time monitoring and interpretation of complex deformation within sedimentary settings.