Demian Saffer Research Overview:

Much of my research lies at the exciting crossroads between geohydrology, active tectonics, and structural geology. Fluids influence deformation in the brittle crust by affecting rock (or sediment) strength, stress state, thermal state, and material properties. In many settings, pore pressure development is mediated by fluid escape along active faults, resulting in complex, dynamic feedback that governs coupled deformation and fluid movement. My current research interests focus on the relationships between fluid flow, solute transport, heat transport, and deformation in varied geologic settings.

Research Interests:

» Fluid pressure and active tectonics
» Sediment Mechanics
» Fluid transport in faults and fractures
» Chemical and heat transport in the crust

Current Projects:

» Deformation, Pore Pressure Prediction, and Fluid Flow Properties in Mudstones

» Experimental Measurement of Permeability and Physical Properties of Shear Bands in Sandstone Reservoir Analogs

» NanTroSEIZE Drilling Program Projects

» Physical Properties of the San Andreas Fault Zone and the Rock Volume that Surrounds It

» Subduction Zone Megathrusts

Contact Demian:

814.865.7965 | dsaffer@geosc.psu.edu