Research Areas
1. Stratigraphy and Geological Correlation
Objectives: To improve and apply modern stratigraphic methods in the study of geometry, structure, sequence, history and correlation of sedimentary sequences. Such fundamental studies can be used to construct an integrated framework for understanding basin architecture. This understanding can be used to explain their paleogeographic evolution in terms of eustatic variations of the sea level and tectonic events.
2. Quaternary Geology and Environmental Changes
Objectives: Research in this area focuses on studying natural and anthropic processes active during the Quaternary, including cycles of greater or lesser intensity and related environmental changes.
3. The Formation and Evolution of Sedimentary Basins and Associated Magmatism
Objectives: Integrated studies of Basin tectonics, stratigraphy and associated magmatism, to characterize the different phases in the evolution of sedimentary basins, as well as their economic potential.
4. Geology and Geophysics of Atlantic Type Margins
Objectives: Understanding the tectono-sedimentary processes related to the origin and evolution of sedimentary basins of Atlantic type continental margins. Studies include the integration and interpretation of geological and geophysical data from sedimentary basins in Brazil and Africa, and the analysis of geodynamic models, rift tectonics and salt tectonics.
5. Economic evaluation of energy (mineral) resources
Objectives: Development of databases on energy (mineral) resource reserves, production and consumption.
6. The Tectonic Evolution of Mobile Belts
Objectives: To further the understanding of the geotectonic processes related to the formation and evolution of pre-Cambrian (Ribeira and Brasilia, Dom Feliciano, Kaoko) and Phanerozoic (Bolivian Sub-Andean Range, Cuban Orogen, Antarctic Peninsula) mobile belts. Such research entails the collection and integration of data from systematic geological mapping, petrographic studies, structural analysis, and geochemical and geochronological studies.
7. Tectonic Control on the Formation of Mineral Deposits and their regional Geological Context
Objectives: The characterization of metallic and non-metallic mineral deposits and their relation to the geological evolution of the region, with the aim of defining prospect areas for the studied commodity. These objectives are achieved by a detailed description of mineralization through the collection of geological and structural data;as well as petrographic, geochemical and geochronological data and their integration with regional studies.
8. Basement Reactivation and its Control on Sedimentary Basin Architecture
Objectives: To study the influence of basement structures on the tectonic evolution of sedimentary basins, through structural and geomorphological studies of the mechanism of crustal extension, faulting and fracturing and geochronological dating of associated magmatism. Research emphasis is given to the Meso-Cenozoic tectonics of the Brazilian Atlantic margin and its influence on the structuration of offshore basins of Campos (RJ-ES), Santos (RJ-SP) and Almada (BA).
9. Applied Geophysics
Objectives: Collection, integration and interpretation of geophysical data across mobile fold belts.