Using both field and analytical techniques, I investigate how deformation mechanisms in crustal shear zones localize strain from the grain- to the meso-scale.
The geological record of subduction zone earthquakes in the Sanbagawa belt
Deformation at convergent plate boundaries is accompanied by a complex behavior that involves seismic activity, aseismic slip, episodic tremor and slow earthquakes. The study of exhumed (fossil) subduction complexes allows to understand the rheological and mechanical properties of blueschist- and eclogite-facies rocks, currently deforming at active margins. I am currently working on linking the finite fabric observed in Sanbagawa rocks, a HP-LT belt in SW Japan, to subduction zone processes and -particularly- with a focus on slow earthquakes. Contact me for more details about this project!
EBSD investigation of grain-scale deformation
I investigate the deformation mechanisms that accommodate strain in rocks at the micro-scale from natural study cases. Investigating natural deformation is challenging, since deformation conditions are constrained only through metamorphic petrology and geothermometry, yet field-based studies are invaluable, as they allow to link experimental deformation to nature.
My research focuses on the interaction between metamorphic reactions, fluid ingress and deformation. The image on the left represent a shear band developed in quartz. Grain size-reduction was assisted by a combination of brittle and crystal-plastic mechanisms, until water entered the shear band allowing nucleation of phyllosilicate grains and small quartz grains, causing strain softening of originally coarse quartz layers.
Quartz-andalusite-cordierite-biotite-white mica S-C mylonites, Punta del Praticciolo (Elba Island, Italy)
Strain Localization in the Crust
My research is focused on understanding the mechanisms accommodating deformation in natural shear zones. I am particularly interested in fluid/rock interaction during deformation and the complex interplay between metamorphic reaction and deformation. I also investigate how brittle and ductile processes interact during shearing.
My research approach combines field surveying and structural analysis with powerful analytical techniques such as Electron BackScatter Diffraction (EBSD) and Electron Probe MicroAnalysis (EPMA), aiming to link deformation mechanisms to pressure-temperature conditions of deformation, based on petrological modelling and geothermobarometry.
Phase equilibria modeling of metamorphic rocks
Phase equilibria modeling is an unparalleled tool in understanding metamorphic processes, the conditions that were present during metamorphism, and the pressure-temperature path of exhumed rocks.
I calculate P-T and T-X pseudosections using both Perplex and THERMOCALC, to understand the tectonometamorphic evolution of deformed rocks. Pseudosection modeling, coupled with independent geothermobarometric estimates and EBSD analysis allow to constrain the P-T conditions of deformation.
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Recumbent folds in metapelites and metamarls, Punta Bianca (La Spezia, Italy)
Field Studies in the Northern Apennines
The majority of my Ph.D. (and pre-Ph.D.) research activity is focused on the structural analysis of metamorphic rocks in the Northern Apennines (Italy), which can tell us about wedge dynamics and exhumation processes during the evolution of an active orogen.
My studies are focused on the micro-scale processes that govern the development of structures at the meso-scale and strain localization in rocks. Nevertheless, they have important outcomes on geodynamic processes that were active during the structural evolution of the chain. In particular, these studies have provided new insights on the complex interplay between extensional and contractional tectonics during the development of the northern Apennine belt.
Related methods: Structural analysis Microtectonics SEM/EBSD EPMA XRF MET Pseudosection Modelling