Research Fields
Tectonophysics
The objective of
this basic research branch focuses on the study of the
structure and dynamics of the lithosphere. The objectives are broadly
applied to a number of tectonic settings that include collisional
orogens, active and passive margins, and sedimentary basins, and are:
- To construct integrated petrophysical models of the lithosphere and underlying mantle at regional and global scales using potential fields, seismic velocities (from field experiments and laboratory measurements), thermal fields, and petrology.
- The study of the deformation of the lithosphere combining seismic profiling, surface geology, and numerical modeling.
- The structural, kinematic, and mechanical evolution of orogenic belts, including surface processes.
- To study how deep-seated processes affect the whole crustal column and interact with surface processes.
- 4D regional and local scale crustal models for the characterization and evolution of natural reservoir and ore deposits
Applied Geology and Geophysics.
This branch implies
a collaborative research mainly with industry in the energy,
geotechnical, and environmental sectors. These activities are not only
directed to industry, but also to the scientific community since it
forms part of our academic research. The main objectives are:
- In the energy sector, the geological structures and thermal conditions favorable to formation and trapping of hydrocarbons.
- In the mineral resources sector, perform regional and local studies as well as high resolution characterization of ore bodies for exploration and exploitation purposes, as well as addressing processes and models that favor the generation of this ore bodies.
- In the geotechnical sector, the study of the subsurface characteristics for the building of large-scale infrastructures such as tunnels, highways, and pipelines.
- In the environmental sector, the objectives are focused on prospecting for hazardous waste disposal sites and CO2 sequestration reservoirs, as well as monitoring its evolution as they are being used
Development of Geophysical Methodologies.
This branch implies
the development of new geophysical methodologies, which involves:
- Research into new methods for seismic wave signal detection and processing, inversion methods (travel time, full waveform), and modeling of wave propagation.
- Development of new algorithms in Eulerian schemes that describe the kinematics of an interface during deformation to integrate geophysical and petrological data.
- Developing new approaches to active source seismic imaging.
- New approaches to subsurface characterization of the crust and lithosphere using natural sources and ambient noise interferometry, three component and muti- azimuth techniques).
