Opens in a new tab

Letter BGeology glossary

Boudinage

Boudinage refers to a structure formed when a layer of rock is stretched and deformed into segments resembling a string of sausages, known as “boudins.” This occurs during ductile deformation under tension, typically in layered rocks. Boudinage provides insights into the stress and strain conditions during tectonic deformation and is often studied in the context of structural geology.

Metamorphic rock showing complex folding patterns (boudinage)
Fig. 1 Metamorphic rock showing complex folding patterns (boudinage)

Source Ramsay, J. G. (1967). Folding and Fracturing of Rocks. McGraw-Hill.

join.me

Geology made clear, in your inbox.

Get clear, visual explainers on rocks, minerals, deep time, and the most fascinating parts of Earth science from Geoscopy.