HelTec - Laboratory for experimental tectonics at the Helmholtz Centre Potsdam GFZ

Simulating geodynamic processes is a challenging task because of the non-linearity and cross-scale nature of tectonic processes. A great challenge is the multispectral character of lithosphere deformation ranging from earthquake rupture (seconds) to tectonic evolution (Millions of years). At the same time, deformation mechanisms determined at the micro-scale (rock friction and crystal plasticity) are responsible for the motion and internal deformation of tectonic plates. This requires a physically self-consistent model approach that is inherently three-dimensional and continuous in space and time. Recent advances in experimental techniques like high resolution monitoring and controlled analogue rheologies made it possible to develop laboratory scale models simulating tectonic deformation on all relevant timescales with high spatial resolution. We follow an integrated physical modelling approach involving structural-kinematic modelling, analogue experiments and numerical analysis. The lab facility consists of four basic components: the analogue rock physics lab, the analogue modelling lab, the experimental monitoring lab and the computational analysis lab.