Fold-and-thrust belts represent an outstanding place to investigate deformational and surface processes and the way these processes interact to shape mountain belts. On a short-time scale, the pattern of deformation and erosion illuminates crustal mechanics and its relation to seismicity, the influence of climate-driven erosion, as well as the influence of fluid flow. On longer-time scales, the structure and dynamics of fold-thrust belts provides pathways to a more mechanistic understanding of rock deformation from micro- to orogen-scale.
In order to understand the rates and mechanisms of orogenic growth, determining the age and longevity of structures such as folds and thrusts is key. Chronological constraints are critical for defining the timing, duration and rate of shortening, fold growth and deposition and more generally the sequence of deformation. In addition to more classical constraints from growth strata, deformed terraces, or low-temperature thermochronometry, the topic benefited from recent advances in K–Ar illite and U–Pb calcite geochronology applied to fault zones and mesoscale brittle structures, allowing for deeper insights into the mechanics of the upper crust.
This session aims at bridging the gap between spatial - from shallow depth to full lithospheric scale- and temporal -short-term vs long-term- scales for a better understanding of building of orogenic wedges and to provide a forum for all disciplines concerned with orogenic wedges to meet and discuss their views. We warmly welcome contributions reporting topical works on fold-thrust belts including seismology, rheology and mechanics, structural geology, dating deformation, thermochronology, geomorphology, thermicity, or fluid rock-interactions. Analogue or numerical modeling work as well as regional case studies are welcome. Furthermore, applied studies aiming at linking the structures and dynamics of fold-and-thrust belts with hydrogeology and generation of carbon-free energy resources such as geothermal energy or natural H2 are also encouraged