Ron Bruhn

Professor of Geology

Structural Geology

B.A. Geology, Alaska Methodist University 1971
M.Phil. Geology, Columbia University, 1975
Ph.D. Geology, Columbia University, 1976

Member:

E-mail: rlbruhn@mines.utah.edu
Tel: (801) 581-6619
FAX: (801) 581-7065

Teaching

Research

General Interests

Structural geology and tectonics, role of fluid pressure and chemistry in fault mechanics, applications of tectonic geomorphology and structural geology to earthquake hazards

Research Projects

GPS Study  Summer 1998

Origin and role of fluid pressure compartments in the tectonics of forearc regions: This project focusses on active deformation in the Cook Inlet forearc basin, Alaska. The project includes field work, and interpretation of seismic reflection lines, well log and core data. The goal is to understand how compartments of high pressure fluid are formed, and how fluid pressures and chemistry affect rock permeability, levels of decollement, and earthquake fault mechanics. Funded by the National Science Foundation.

Most recent AGU poster session:
GEODYNAMICS & FLUID PRESSURE IN THE COOK INLET FOLD & FAULT BELT, ALASKA

Hydrothermal fluids and mechanics of active normal faults: The goal is to document and model hydrothermal circulation in active normal faults, and determine how fluid - rock interactions control fault mechanics. Work is focussed on the Dixie Valley fault zone in Nevada, and includes field work, laboratory experiments, and hydrological modeling of fluid flow. Funded by the U.S. Geol. Survey NEHRP program.

Tectonic Geomorphology and Active Structures: The geomorphology of mountain fronts and basins is partly controlled by earthquake-related deformation during normal faulting. This work includes the use of tectonic geomorphology to infer rates of displacement and positions of structural and rupture segments in active fault zones. The work also includes the application of cosmogenic isotopes to infer the age of paleo-earthquakes. Funded in part by the National Science Foundation.

Recent Publications

Wu, Daning and Bruhn, R.L., 1994, Geometry and kinematics of active normal faults, southern Oquirrh Mountains, Utah: Implications for fault growth. J. Structural Geology, V. 16, p. 1060 - 1075.

Bruhn, R.L., Parry, W.T., Yonkee, W.A., and Thompson, R., 1994, Fracturing and hydorthermal alteration in normal fault zones. PAGEOPH, V. 142, p.609-644.

Bruhn, R.L., Forster, C.B., Caine, J., and Fredrich, J., 1994, Study of the Spatial and temporal variability in hydromechanical properties of an active normal fault zone, Dixie Valley, NV, National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program, U.S.G.S. Open-File Report 94-176, P. 6-12.

Bruhn, R.L., 1994, Fracturing in normal fault zones: Implications for fluid transport and fault stability. in The Mechanical Involvement of Fluids in Faulting, U.S.G.S. Open-File Report 94-228, p. 231-246.\