Structural Geology and Tectonic Application to Exploration

This course is designed for exploration geologists and advanced students who wish to incorporate structural tools into their professional practice. The main objective is to introduce fundamental concepts and methods of structural geology and tectonics as applied to mineral exploration. Throughout the course, participants will work to: (1) understand the relationship between structures, tectonics, and the formation of magmatic and hydrothermal deposits, (2) acquire practical tools for the observation, analysis, and interpretation of structures in the field and in exploration data, and (3) integrate structural information into exploration models and decision-making.

The course will provide the necessary foundations to understand how deformation and tectonic context control the migration and emplacement of magmatic and hydrothermal fluids, and how these processes influence the formation and location of mineral systems. Key topics include fault and fracture analysis, vein system analysis, the interaction between faults and mineralizing fluids, and the application of structural techniques to improve the accuracy of resource estimation and exploration target definition, based on case studies in Argentina and Chile.