Geology of the Susa Shear Zone (Susa Valley, Western Alps)

A detailed geological map of the Susa Shear Zone (SSZ) in the Western Alps reveals its role as a first-order tectonic feature that drove the exhumation and juxtaposition of distinct oceanic and continental margin units. The SSZ, characterized by a block-in-matrix structure with mylonitic calcschists embedding various rock blocks, evolved through two major tectonic events: an initial phase featuring apparent reverse top-to-E shear planes, followed by extensional top-to-W structures. This study combines geological mapping and structural analysis to elucidate the overprinting relationships among shear planes, providing critical insights into the SSZ's complex tectonic evolution. The findings contribute significantly to understanding the dynamic processes shaping the inner sector of the Western Alps.

Ghignone, S., Gattiglio, M., Balestro, G., & Borghi, A. (2019). Geology of the Susa Shear Zone (Susa Valley, Western Alps). Journal of Maps, 16(2), 79–86. https://doi.org/10.1080/17445647.2019.1698473