Specialization

Exploration Geophysics; Geodynamics

Research Area

Advancing Geophysical Insights into Lithospheric Architecture and Tectonic Evolution

Dr. K.N.D. Prasad’s research is at the forefront of applied geophysics, employing gravity and magnetic data to decode the structural and tectonic framework of diverse geological domains. His work spans continental margins, sedimentary basins, oceanic ridges, shield regions, and geothermal provinces, emphasizing the intricate interplay between lithospheric deformation, crustal architecture, and geodynamic evolution. Through a combination of novel methodological advancements, data-driven geophysical interpretations, and multi-scale structural analyses, his research provides fundamental insights into the subsurface processes governing tectonic activity, resource distribution, and geothermal potential.

1. Structural Mapping and Tectonic Evolution of Diverse Geological Terrains

A primary focus of Dr. Prasad’s research lies in delineating subsurface structures that shape the evolution of continental and oceanic domains. His work has illuminated the structural complexity of tectonically active regions, utilizing high-resolution gravity and magnetic datasets to uncover hidden discontinuities, fault networks, and basement structures:

• Vietnam Continental Margin and Adjacent Areas:

  The application of an enhanced horizontal gradient of gravity data has refined our understanding of the structural configuration and tectonic evolution of this critical margin (Tectonophysics, 2025).

• Southern Hanoi Basin:

  Gravity-based analysis has been instrumental in mapping concealed structural features buried beneath thick sedimentary cover, offering new perspectives on the basin’s subsurface architecture (Earth Science Informatics, 2025).

• Rub’Al-Khali Basin (Arabian Peninsula):

  A comprehensive isostatic and lineament analysis using gravity data has provided a deeper understanding of the basin’s crustal structure, shedding light on lithospheric flexure and tectonic inheritance (Journal of Asian Earth Sciences, 2024).

• Southern Benue Trough (Nigeria):

  Gravity-driven interpretations have delineated key structural corridors influencing basin evolution and sedimentary dynamics (Environmental Earth Sciences, 2024).

• West-Central Arabian Shield (Saudi Arabia):

  The utilization of downward-continued magnetic data has enabled high-resolution structural mapping of basement features within this ancient cratonic region (Journal of King Saud University-Science, 2024).

2. Potential Field Methods in Crustal Architecture and Lithospheric Studies

Dr. Prasad has made significant strides in integrating gravity and magnetic methodologies to probe lithospheric thickness variations, thermal regimes, and deep crustal structures. His contributions to crustal modeling have provided crucial constraints on the rheology and geodynamic evolution of various tectonic domains:

• South-Central Indian Ridge:

  Gravity data interpretations at 22°–17° S have revealed asymmetric ridge accretion processes, offering new insights into mid-ocean ridge dynamics (Journal of Asian Earth Sciences, 2024).

• Eastern Indian Shield:

  A magnetization-depth analysis has uncovered key variations in crustal magnetization, refining our understanding of the thermal state and compositional heterogeneity of the Indian lithosphere (Journal of Asian Earth Sciences, 2023).

• Central Indian Crust:

  Magneto-thermometric modeling has provided vital constraints on the region’s lithospheric thermal structure and its implications for mantle dynamics (Journal of Applied Geophysics, 2022).

• Narmada-Tapti Region (India):

  Integrated geophysical modeling has highlighted the imprints of multistage magmatic intrusions, refining tectonic reconstructions of the region (Journal of Earth System Sciences, 2021).

• Deccan Syneclise (India): A 3D density modeling approach has characterized the upper crustal density variations, refining our understanding of subsurface mass distribution (Geophysical Prospecting, 2018).

3. Development of Advanced Gradient-Based Edge Detection Techniques

Dr. Prasad’s research has led to the development of sophisticated gradient-based filtering techniques that enhance the resolution of structural features in gravity and magnetic data. His innovative algorithms have improved the delineation of geological boundaries, fault zones, and basement topography, making substantial contributions to geophysical data interpretation:

• Balanced Horizontal Gradient (BHG) Method:

  A Fourier-based edge detection technique designed to refine structural interpretations from potential field data (Geocarto International, 2022).

• Enhanced Total Gradient (ETG) Approach:

  A novel gradient function developed for the enhanced visualization of magnetic anomalies (Minerals, 2022).

• ImpTAHG Filter:

  An innovative filter for edge detection, effectively resolving subtle geophysical discontinuities (Pure and Applied Geophysics, 2022).

• Enhanced Gradient (EG) Function:

  A cutting-edge edge enhancement technique applied to potential field data (Bulletin of the Mineral Research and Exploration, 2023).

These methodological advancements have significantly improved the accuracy of subsurface imaging, particularly in structurally complex terrains, and have been applied across multiple geological settings.

4. Geothermal Investigations and Mass Redistribution Analysis

Dr. Prasad has extended his expertise to geothermal energy exploration, applying gravity inversion and spectral methods to estimate the depth to heat-producing structures:

• Tatapani Geothermal Province (India):

  Gravity-based depth estimation techniques have been leveraged to investigate geothermal reservoir extensions and associated structural controls.

• Koyna-Warna Seismic Region: Co-seismic gravity change analysis has provided insights into mass redistribution mechanisms following seismic activity (Journal of Geological Society of India, 2017).

These studies have crucial implications for renewable energy exploration and seismic hazard assessment.

5. Integrating Multidisciplinary Geophysical Approaches

   Beyond gravity and magnetic studies, Dr. Prasad has collaborated on integrating multiple geophysical techniques to address complex subsurface challenges:

   • Groundwater Exploration in Laos:

     A joint interpretation of 2D-electrical resistivity imaging and seismic refraction tomography has been applied to groundwater potential assessment (Vietnam Journal of Earth Sciences, 2023).

   • Neoproterozoic Malani Igneous Suite (India):

     Gravity data have been used to infer the presence of a remnant plume head beneath the region, with implications for Proterozoic magmatism (Tectonophysics, 2020).

6. Thesis

The Narmada-Tapti region in central India is a geologically complex area shaped by multiple tectonic events, including Mesozoic sedimentation, rifting, Reunion hotspot activity, and the Indo-Eurasian collision. The Deccan volcanic eruptions buried significant geological structures, necessitating advanced geophysical methods to map subsurface features. A novel Balance Horizontal Gradient (BHG) edge detection filter was developed to delineate structural trends, revealing pseudo-structural patterns associated with mantle plume activity. The study also highlights the presence of Mesozoic sediments beneath Deccan traps, potential hydrocarbon zones, and upper crustal magma chambers. A 3D density model refines the understanding of crustal architecture, including an underplated high-density layer at the base of the crust. Thermal lithospheric analysis using Curie depth and heat flow estimations indicates a relatively thin lithosphere (50–100 km) with significant heat flow variations, suggesting past plume activity and lithospheric thinning. The study shows that tectonic reactivation and plume-related modifications have weakened the Indian lithosphere, leading to persistent seismic activity. These findings provide crucial insights into the region’s geodynamics, lithospheric strength, and resource potential, addressing long-standing gaps in the understanding of the Narmada-Tapti region’s deep crustal and thermal structure.