3D modeling as a tool for imaging geological structures

The use of three-dimensional (3D) modelling and visualization techniques is an effective tool that helps in the understanding of the geometry and evolution of the geological structures. These techniques are routinely used in the oil & gas and in the mine industries, where significant investments are accompanied by careful planning and monitoring through digital modelling. With the increasing need of understand three- dimensional coherence of large and multidisciplinary datasets, the 3D modelling practice has been extended to field-based investigations and serves as a predictive tool in areas with poor sub-surface data. In the latter case, the study of analogue outcrops is used to predict the 3D behaviour of subsurface structures. Our experience demonstrates the effectiveness of the 3D modelling techniques in different tectonic settings. Here we are presenting map-scale examples of models obtained in areas of the inner and the central zones of the Apennines, respectively in areas where the post-collisional extension is prevalent, and areas where the effects of the contraction does.