Projects / Programmes
January 1, 2014
- December 31, 2018
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 1.06.06 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Geology |
Regional geology |
| 1.06.05 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Geology |
Geophysics |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| P005 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Geology, physical geography |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| 1.05 |
Natural Sciences |
Earth and related Environmental sciences |
Researchers (27)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
The basic goal of the PG is developing new science-based concepts in understanding of the geological structure and geodynamics in Slovenia, while continuing interconnecting various geological researches in Slovenia in a coherent form and its integration in the broader European context. For this purpose we tackle topics from the fields of stratigraphy, tectonics, active tectonics, paleontology, geohazard and geophysics. From 2004 onwards we have been expanding this multidisiplinarity from ''classical'' geological research to methodologies that have been introduced in Slovenian science by our PG: tectonic geomorphology, high-resolution seismic reflection, low frequency ground penetrating radar, paleoseismology, …
Geological maps (3D models) as primary products of the program are used as basis for spatial and social planning, investigations of water resources, geothermal energy and mineral resources, for elaboration of thematic geological maps, for solving ecological problems and for geohazards assessment. Natural and cultural heritage conservation are further applications that are supported by geological maps as well. A major part of research within the project is aimed towards dealing with geological issues beyond Slovenian borders on a wider European, and global scale (e.g.: understanding tectonics, geodynamics and seismicity at the junction of the European, Adriatic and Tisza plates, understanding global eustatic and anoxic oceanic events, evolutionary contributions to paleontology, etc.). The research topics of the program Regional Geology are essential for the progress within fundamental fields in geology. The importance of the program is also in strengthening the position of Slovenian geological science within the international scientific community. A major effort is also put into elaboration of final products that are directly applicable to the end user.
Members of the Program group are also very active in dissemination of scientific results through popular science publications and through various media appearances.
Significance for science
The proposed research will contribute to development of fields that have been relatively recently introduced in Slovenian geosciences (tectonic geomorphology, high-resolution seismic reflection, low frequency GPR and paleoseismology). The results of paleoseismological and active tectonics research will contribute to the understanding of active tectonics and earthquake geology at the transition from the Southern Alps into the Dinarides and will be recognized in world scientific literature.
The rich history of biostratigraphic research was frequently finished with paleontological studies of individual fossil groups without simultaneous and essential sedimentological and paleoecological analysis. This factor hindered comparisons of different upper Paleozoic strata in this area and paleoenvironmental reconstructions. Using new research, this will be amended.
Paleogeographic studies will improve understanding of initial positions and locations of tectonic units in the upper Triassic. These units were dislocated by later tectonic movement. The new studies will improve the knowledge about the paleogeographic locations of coral reefs in Slovenian Southern Alps and comparison with coral reefs of the same age in Northern Calcareous Alps.
We will compare data on Triassic conodonts with new international IUGS criteria and present them in monographic form. The research is part of the worldwide research of geochemical, paleoecological, paleobiological and paleoclimatic conditions during the Triassic.
Using the low frequency 50 MHz antenna, we will contribute to the progress of science, as research of this type are rare worldwide. No study has so far been presented that used the innovative RTA system, which will enable us to conduct GPR surveys in less accesible areas. Research with low-frequency GPR applied in engineering geological problems are few, worldwide. Thus the proposed research, development of new methods and their verification will be a new, original contribution to science. The added value to the results of GPR surveys will be contributed by their complementarity with the results of high-resolution seismic reflection.
Modeling of slope mass movement dynamics and behavior in normal and extreme conditions, the theoretical knowledge reveals its flaws and deficiencies. Holistic monitoring of natural conditions that will be observed in our natural laboratory will help reduce uncertainties of this heterogeneity and will enable more precise determination of factors included in the dynamics of SMMP. We expect that the comparison of the two diametric research approaches will enable a better insight into SMMP and will at the same time form a foundation to define the balance between the accuracy, level of details and economic justification of SMMP research. Finding this equilibrium will enable more efficient transfer of knowledge and results into solving societal challenges related to SMMP.
Significance for the country
During the last program period the PG Regional geology has further strengthened its role in the society. We can confidently state that the results of our research have been used in all the major infrastructural projects in Slovenia in the last several years; in most cases in the form of formal involvement of our PG. All research is included in the production of a new geological map of Slovenia and thus at least indirectly in numerous projects that require the use of geological data. We expect to further increase and improve the usability of our results.
The possibility of large, devastating earthquakes presents threat to the population and infrastructure of Slovenia. Research of active tectonics and paleoseismology is the geological background for assessment of earthquake hazard. The applicability of research results has direct value for further societal development. By regulation of seismic safety measures, proper urban spatial planning and education, the earthquake vulnerability of population, infrastructure and cultural heritage can be minimized.
Research in the field of SMMP represents one of several end-type research parts. Results of the SMMP research are instantly usable in several levels of society; at the level of individuals by improving their security; at the level of municipalities and regions by allowing the decision makers to more efficiently manage space and environment, reassuring a quality living environment for their inhabitants and more stimulating (and safer) economic environment; and at the level of the whole country, which constitutional obligation is to assure healthy living environment to its population. By understanding SMMP bad spatial management decisions could be avoided resulting in prevention of damage to buildings and infrastructure and occasionally even in prevention of casualties.
Biostratigraphic data with included paleontological content is an integral part of knowing our natural heritage. A major part of our research is directly related to the field of natural heritage (for example: P/T boundary, geoparks, Alpine reserves, geological trail in Ljubljana, the expected restoration of the Slovenian geological trail, etc).
Our research points to the influence of climate change on life in the geological past and influence our understanding of current climatic change and its consequence.
A good knowledge of Permian-Carbonifferous strata has large potential, as preliminary research indicated the existence of geological structure at depth, potentially suitable for storage of natural gas or CO2. Additionally this formation is an important horizon for exploitation of geothermal potential.
The program group includes also junior researches and thus is educating new scientists.
The PG will continue disseminating research data to end users and the general public through popular science publications, educational and documentary programs, lectures and other activities.
Most important scientific results
Annual report
2014,
2015,
final report
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Annual report
2014,
2015,
final report
