A NEW METHOD FOR THE GEOMETRICAL CLASSIFICATION OF LARGE DATA SETS OF FOLDS

The classification proposed here for folded layers is based on the use of two parameters, p1 and p2 (modified to p1' and p2') which are related to the variation in slope of the curves that describe orthogonal thickness vs dip. Each fold limb is represented by a point on a p1'-p2' diagram. From p1' and p2' it is possible to obtain a one-dimensional statistical variable (intercept value t90') which characterizes the geometry of folds and complements the proposed classification. The fold classification method suggested is easy to use and it has considerable advantages in the geometrical analysis of large sets of folds. In addition, it can be applied to the theoretical analysis of fold geometry, to the comparative regional studies of fold and to the analysis of geometrical variations in a folded multilayer.