Numerical modelling of coupled deformation, fluid flow and heat flow in modern and ancient rifts

地质过程的计算机模拟对于矿产和油气勘探、灾害预测(例如地震)和板块构造越来越重要。由于很难从古老的岩石中了解地质过程，我们将使用新的计算机模型来研究新西兰一个活跃的火山断裂带的流体循环，在那里可以直接测量到许多隐藏在古代岩石中的参数。我们将确定在古代岩石中形成矿藏的流体迁移过程，例如在澳大利亚东部开采的金矿。该项目还对发现和开发包括化石燃料和地热水在内的能源资源产生了影响。

Computer modeling of geological processes is increasingly important to mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, to hazard prediction (e.g. earthquakes) and to plate tectonics. Because it is difficult to understand geological processes from ancient rocks, we will use new computer models to study fluid circulation in an active volcanic fault zone in New Zealand, where many of the parameters obscured in ancient rocks can be measured directly. We will determine processes of fluid migration that contributed to the formation of mineral deposits in ancient rocks, such as those mined in eastern Australia for gold. The project also has implications for discovery and development of energy resources including fossil fuels and geothermal waters.