Applications of Fractal Analysis in Structural Geology
A special issue of Fractal and Fractional (ISSN 2504-3110). This special issue belongs to the section "Engineering".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2026 | Viewed by 178
Special Issue Editors
Interests: fractals; rock physics; exploration geophysics; petroleum exploration and development
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Interests: fractals; rock physics; exploration geophysics; petroleum; well logging
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Fractal theory has revolutionized geological structure analysis by providing a robust framework for quantifying complex patterns across spatial scales. This interdisciplinary approach enables the systematic characterization of self-similar features in rock pore structures, fracture networks, tectonic deformations, and sedimentary architectures, from micron-scale rock fabrics to basin-scale structural systems. The integration of fractal geometry with advanced geospatial technologies offers promising capabilities for deciphering Earth's nonlinear processes.
Recent advancements in high-resolution remote sensing, 3D seismic interpretation, rock physics theories, and computational geomechanics have significantly enhanced the applications of fractals in geosciences. These developments have facilitated quantitative assessments of structural complexity, enabling the predictive modeling of fracture propagation, reservoir heterogeneity, and mineral deposit distributions using scale-invariant parameters.
This Special Issue aims to showcase innovative methodologies and cross-disciplinary applications of fractal analysis in structural geology. We welcome the submission of original research and reviews addressing topics such as (but not limited to) the following:
- Fractal dimension applications in fault system characterization;
- The multiscale modeling of fracture networks’ evolution;
- Machine learning-enhanced fractal pattern recognition;
- Reservoir quality prediction using fractal pore models;
- Geo-hazard assessment through fractal terrain analysis;
- Geo-stress field reconstruction using fractal kinematics;
- Digital rock physics incorporating fractal petrofabrics;
- Rock physics/seismic modeling or inversion;
- The comparative fractal analysis of planetary surface features.
Prof. Dr. Jing Ba
Dr. Yuhang Guo
Prof. Dr. Cong Luo
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.
Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Fractal and Fractional is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.
Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.
Keywords
- fractal geometry
- structural complexity
- scale invariance
- fracture network modeling
- seismic attribute analysis
- reservoir heterogeneity
- rock physics/seismic modeling
- rock physics/seismic inversion
- geomechanical prediction
- digital geology
- multiscale characterization
- planetary geomorphology
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
- Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
- Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
- Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
- External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
- Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.
Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.
