Shankar Mitra

Victor E. Monnett Chair in Geology and Geophysics

Ph.D., 1977, Johns Hopkins University
M.A., 1977, Johns Hopkins University
M.Sc., 1972, Calcutta University
B.Sc. (Hons.), 1969, Calcutta University

Office: SEC 846
Phone: 405-325-4462
Fax: 405-325-3140
E-mail: smitra@ou.edu

Areas of Interest

Structural Geology, Petroleum Geology, Fractured and Faulted Reservoirs

Research

Current interests are developing a research program in pure and applied structural geology. The research consists of two main themes:

• 3-D analysis and modeling of structures in sedimentary basins
• analysis of minor and microscopic-scale mechanisms of deformation including faulting, fracturing, cataclasis, and pressure solution.

A major focus of the program is the application of structural concepts and techniques to problems in hydrocarbon exploration and production.

An understanding of the structural and tectonic architecture of sedimentary basins requires a good understanding of fold-fault relationships and the mechanics of formation of these structures. Past research in the area has included the development of kinematic models for different types of structures, as well as the use of methods such as balanced cross sections to improve structural interpretations. Current research interests are to extend these approaches to the 3-D analysis and modeling of structures.

Other areas of research interest include the role of fracturing and other deformation mechanisms in enhancing or reducing reservoir porosity and permeability, and their influence on whether faults are sealing or non-sealing.

Courses Taught

Structural Geology / Petroleum Exploration

Structural Geology and Stratigraphy

Selected Publications

Mitra, S., and Mount, V.S., 1998, Foreland Basement-Involved Structures, A.A.P.G. Bulletin, v. 82, p. 70-109.

Mitra, S., and Islam, Q.T., 1994, Experimental (clay)models of inversion structures, Tectonophysics, v. 230, p. 211-222.

Mitra, S., 1993, Geometry and kinematic evolution of Inversion Structures: American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 77, p. 1159-1191.

Mitra, S., 1992, Balanced structural interpretations in fold and thrust belts: p. 53-77, in Mitra, S., and Fisher, G.W., eds., Structural Geology of Fold and Thrust Belts, Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, 254 p.

Mitra, S., 1990, Fault-propagation folding: geometry, kinematic evolution and hydrocarbon traps: American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 74, p. 921-945.

Mitra, S., and Namson, J.S., 1989, Equal-area balancing, American Journal of Science, v. 289, p. 563-599.

Mitra, S., 1988, Effects of deformation mechanisms on reservoir potential in the central Appalachians, American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 72, p. 536-554.

Mitra, S., 1988, Three-Dimensional geometry and kinematic evolution of the Pine Mountains thrust system, southern Appalachians, Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 100, p. 72-95.

Mitra, S., 1987, Regional variations in deformation mechanisms and structural styles in the central Appalachian orogenic belt, Geological Society of America Bulletin, v. 98, p. 569-590.

Mitra, S., 1986, Duplex structures and imbricate thrust systems: Geometry, structural position and hydrocarbon potential, American Association of Petroleum Geologists Bulletin, v. 70, p. 1087-1112