Techniques of geologicmapping and geologicmap creation have changed significantly from traditional paper-based methods. Geologic mapping and data collection in the field is now primarily facilitated by mobile devices and dedicated geologic mapping software. Geologic map production has become a fully integrated process, importing digital data from the field and making use of cartographic software, such as ArcGIS and Adobe Illustrator, to create interactive geologic map products.

Structural geology is obviously one of the more important subjects for geoscientists working in petroleum industry. Folds and faults in deformed rocks make traps for hydrocarbon accumulation. Also, large-scale deformations, the so-called tectonics, control the architecture of petroliferous sedimentary basins. It is the primary job of a structural geologist to interpret geological map and field data, and infer geometry of large scale folds and faults. However, geoscientists with varied specializations and working with different kinds of data may also be called upon to make structural interpretations.

COSGROVE, J. W. The role of structural geology in reservoir characterization
ARCHER, J. S. Reservoir characterization and modelling: a framework for field development
FREEMAN, B., YIELDING, G., NEEDHAM, D. T. & BADLEY, M. E. Fault seal prediction: the gouge ratio method
CRAWFORD, B. R. Experimental fault sealing: shear band permeability dependency on cataclastic fault gouge characteristics
GABRIELSEN, R. H., AARLAND, R.-K. & ALSAKER, E. Identification and spatial distribution of fractures in porous, siliciclastic sediments

Our purpose in writing this textbook, now updated to a third-edition view of the world, is to communicate the physical and geometric elegance of geologic structures within the Earth’s crust, and to describe the ways in which they reflect the nature and origin of crustal deformation through time (Figure 1.1). Geologic structures provide part of the basis for recognizing and reconstructing the profound changes that have marked the physical evolution of the Earth’s outermost layers, as observed from the scale of the plates down to the microscopic. Understanding the nature and extensiveness of geologic structures of deformational origin in the Earth’s crust has both scientific and practical benefit. But there is a philosophical value as well. <...>