Folding processes and solitary waves in structural geology

Evolution of localized folding patterns in layered elastic and visco–elastic materials is reviewed in the context of compressed geological systems. The thin strut or plate embedded in a visco–elastic medium is used as an archetypal example to describe localized buckles which, in contrast to those from earlier formulations, appear in the absence of triggering imperfections. Structural and material effects are surveyed and important nonlinear characteristics are identified. A brief review of possible methods of analysis is conducted.