The initiation and development of folds in layered rocks is a fundamental phenomena, however the process involves a complex set of possible variables. This project continues research on folding in layered materials by modeling in linear and non-linear viscous materials. Finite element models will study how shape and strain distribution in single-layer and multilayer folds vary as a function of viscosity contrast, the exponent in a constitutive relation of power-law type, and initial shape, wavelength and layer spacing. Results should increase understanding of the fundamental controls on the rheology of rocks deformed under natural conditions.
