Articles | Volume 14, issue 4
https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-389-2023
© Author(s) 2023. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-389-2023
© Author(s) 2023. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Research article
| 
13 Apr 2023
Research article |
| 13 Apr 2023
| 13 Apr 2023
Tectonic interactions during rift linkage: insights from analog and numerical experiments
Timothy Chris Schmid
CORRESPONDING AUTHOR
Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Sascha Brune
Helmholtz Centre Potsdam – GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam, Germany
Institute of Geosciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
Anne Glerum
Helmholtz Centre Potsdam – GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Potsdam, Germany
Guido Schreurs
Institute of Geological Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Related authors
Pâmela C. Richetti, Frank Zwaan, Guido Schreurs, Renata S. Schmitt, and Timothy C. Schmid
Solid Earth, 14, 1245–1266, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1245-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1245-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Araripe Basin in NE Brazil was originally formed during Cretaceous times, as South America and Africa broke up. The basin is an important analogue to offshore South Atlantic break-up basins; its sediments were uplifted and are now found at 1000 m height, allowing for studies thereof, but the cause of the uplift remains debated. Here we ran a series of tectonic laboratory experiments that show how a specific plate tectonic configuration can explain the evolution of the Araripe Basin.
Anindita Samsu, Weronika Gorczyk, Timothy Chris Schmid, Peter Graham Betts, Alexander Ramsay Cruden, Eleanor Morton, and Fatemeh Amirpoorsaeed
Solid Earth, 14, 909–936, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-909-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-909-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
When a continent is pulled apart, it breaks and forms a series of depressions called rift basins. These basins lie above weakened crust that is then subject to intense deformation during subsequent tectonic compression. Our analogue experiments show that when a system of basins is squeezed in a direction perpendicular to the main trend of the basins, some basins rise up to form mountains while others do not.
Pâmela C. Richetti, Frank Zwaan, Guido Schreurs, Renata S. Schmitt, and Timothy C. Schmid
Solid Earth, 14, 1245–1266, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1245-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1245-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The Araripe Basin in NE Brazil was originally formed during Cretaceous times, as South America and Africa broke up. The basin is an important analogue to offshore South Atlantic break-up basins; its sediments were uplifted and are now found at 1000 m height, allowing for studies thereof, but the cause of the uplift remains debated. Here we ran a series of tectonic laboratory experiments that show how a specific plate tectonic configuration can explain the evolution of the Araripe Basin.
Frank Zwaan, Tiago Alves, Patricia Cadenas, Mohamed Gouiza, Jordan Phethean, Sascha Brune, and Anne Glerum
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2548, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2548, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Rifting and the break-up of continents is a key aspect of Earth’s plate tectonic system. A thorough understanding of the geological processes involved in rifting, as well as of the associated natural hazards and resources, is of great importance in the context of the energy transition. Here, we provide a coherent overview of rift processes and the links with hazards and resources, and we assess future challenges and opportunities for (collaboration between) researchers, government, and industry.
Thilo Wrona, Indranil Pan, Rebecca E. Bell, Christopher A.-L. Jackson, Robert L. Gawthorpe, Haakon Fossen, Edoseghe E. Osagiede, and Sascha Brune
Solid Earth, 14, 1181–1195, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1181-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1181-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We need to understand where faults are to do the following: (1) assess their seismic hazard, (2) explore for natural resources and (3) store CO2 safely in the subsurface. Currently, we still map subsurface faults primarily by hand using seismic reflection data, i.e. acoustic images of the Earth. Mapping faults this way is difficult and time-consuming. Here, we show how to use deep learning to accelerate fault mapping and how to use networks or graphs to simplify fault analyses.
Anne Cathelijn Glerum, Sascha Brune, Joseph Michael Magnall, Philipp Weis, and Sarah A. Gleeson
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2518, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-2518, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Known high-value lead-zinc deposits formed in sedimentary basins created when tectonic plates rifted apart. We use computer simulations of rifting and the associated erosion and deposition of sediments to understand why they formed in some basins, but not in others. We find that conditions for deposit formation can briefly occur in both narrow and wide rifts for at most 3 My. Our models predict that the largest and the most deposits form in narrow margins of plates that rift asymmetrically.
Anindita Samsu, Weronika Gorczyk, Timothy Chris Schmid, Peter Graham Betts, Alexander Ramsay Cruden, Eleanor Morton, and Fatemeh Amirpoorsaeed
Solid Earth, 14, 909–936, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-909-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-909-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
When a continent is pulled apart, it breaks and forms a series of depressions called rift basins. These basins lie above weakened crust that is then subject to intense deformation during subsequent tectonic compression. Our analogue experiments show that when a system of basins is squeezed in a direction perpendicular to the main trend of the basins, some basins rise up to form mountains while others do not.
Frank Zwaan and Guido Schreurs
Solid Earth, 14, 823–845, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-823-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-823-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The East African Rift System (EARS) is a major plate tectonic feature splitting the African continent apart. Understanding the tectonic processes involved is of great importance for societal and economic reasons (natural hazards, resources). Laboratory experiments allow us to simulate these large-scale processes, highlighting the links between rotational plate motion and the overall development of the EARS. These insights are relevant when studying other rift systems around the globe as well.
Frank Zwaan, Guido Schreurs, Susanne J. H. Buiter, Oriol Ferrer, Riccardo Reitano, Michael Rudolf, and Ernst Willingshofer
Solid Earth, 13, 1859–1905, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1859-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1859-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
When a sedimentary basin is subjected to compressional tectonic forces after its formation, it may be inverted. A thorough understanding of such
basin inversionis of great importance for scientific, societal, and economic reasons, and analogue tectonic models form a key part of our efforts to study these processes. We review the advances in the field of basin inversion modelling, showing how the modelling results can be applied, and we identify promising venues for future research.
Susanne J. H. Buiter, Sascha Brune, Derek Keir, and Gwenn Peron-Pinvidic
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2022-139, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2022-139, 2022
Preprint archived
Short summary
Short summary
Continental rifts can form when and where continents are stretched. Rifts are characterised by faults, sedimentary basins, earthquakes and/or volcanism. If rifting can continue, a rift may break a continent into conjugate margins such as along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. In some cases, however, rifting fails, such as in the West African Rift. We discuss continental rifting from inception to break-up, focussing on the processes at play, and illustrate these with several natural examples.
Iris van Zelst, Fabio Crameri, Adina E. Pusok, Anne Glerum, Juliane Dannberg, and Cedric Thieulot
Solid Earth, 13, 583–637, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-583-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-583-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Geodynamic modelling provides a powerful tool to investigate processes in the Earth’s crust, mantle, and core that are not directly observable. In this review, we present a comprehensive yet concise overview of the modelling process with an emphasis on best practices. We also highlight synergies with related fields, such as seismology and geology. Hence, this review is the perfect starting point for anyone wishing to (re)gain a solid understanding of geodynamic modelling as a whole.
Frank Zwaan, Pauline Chenin, Duncan Erratt, Gianreto Manatschal, and Guido Schreurs
Solid Earth, 12, 1473–1495, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1473-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1473-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
We used laboratory experiments to simulate the early evolution of rift systems, and the influence of structural weaknesses left over from previous tectonic events that can localize new deformation. We find that the orientation and type of such weaknesses can induce complex structures with different orientations during a single phase of rifting, instead of requiring multiple rifting phases. These findings provide a strong incentive to reassess the tectonic history of various natural examples.
Eline Le Breton, Sascha Brune, Kamil Ustaszewski, Sabin Zahirovic, Maria Seton, and R. Dietmar Müller
Solid Earth, 12, 885–913, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-885-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-885-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
The former Piemont–Liguria Ocean, which separated Europe from Africa–Adria in the Jurassic, opened as an arm of the central Atlantic. Using plate reconstructions and geodynamic modeling, we show that the ocean reached only 250 km width between Europe and Adria. Moreover, at least 65 % of the lithosphere subducted into the mantle and/or incorporated into the Alps during convergence in Cretaceous and Cenozoic times comprised highly thinned continental crust, while only 35 % was truly oceanic.
Frank Zwaan, Guido Schreurs, and Susanne J. H. Buiter
Solid Earth, 10, 1063–1097, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-10-1063-2019, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-10-1063-2019, 2019
Short summary
Short summary
This work was inspired by an effort to numerically reproduce laboratory models of extension tectonics. We tested various set-ups to find a suitable analogue model and in the process systematically charted the impact of set-ups and boundary conditions on model results, a topic poorly described in existing scientific literature. We hope that our model results and the discussion on which specific tectonic settings they could represent may serve as a guide for future (analogue) modeling studies.
Sascha Brune, Simon E. Williams, and R. Dietmar Müller
Solid Earth, 9, 1187–1206, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-9-1187-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-9-1187-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
Fragmentation of continents often involves obliquely rifting segments that feature a complex three-dimensional structural evolution. Here we show that more than ~ 70 % of Earth’s rifted margins exceeded an obliquity of 20° demonstrating that oblique rifting should be considered the rule, not the exception. This highlights the importance of three-dimensional approaches in modelling, surveying, and interpretation of those rift segments where oblique rifting is the dominant mode of deformation.
Anne Glerum, Cedric Thieulot, Menno Fraters, Constantijn Blom, and Wim Spakman
Solid Earth, 9, 267–294, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-9-267-2018, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-9-267-2018, 2018
Short summary
Short summary
A nonlinear viscoplastic rheology is implemented and benchmarked in the ASPECT software, allowing for the modeling of lithospheric deformation. We showcase the new functionality with a four-dimensional model of thermomechanically coupled subduction.
Michael Rubey, Sascha Brune, Christian Heine, D. Rhodri Davies, Simon E. Williams, and R. Dietmar Müller
Solid Earth, 8, 899–919, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-8-899-2017, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-8-899-2017, 2017
Short summary
Short summary
Earth's surface is constantly warped up and down by the convecting mantle. Here we derive geodynamic rules for this so-called
dynamic topographyby employing high-resolution numerical models of global mantle convection. We define four types of dynamic topography history that are primarily controlled by the ever-changing pattern of Earth's subduction zones. Our models provide a predictive quantitative framework linking mantle convection with plate tectonics and sedimentary basin evolution.
Related subject area
Subject area: Tectonic plate interactions, magma genesis, and lithosphere deformation at all scales | Editorial team: Geodynamics and quantitative modelling | Discipline: Tectonics
Oblique rifting triggered by slab tearing: the case of the Alboran rifted margin in the eastern Betics
Assessing the role of thermal disequilibrium in the evolution of the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary: an idealized model of heat exchange during channelized melt transport
Numerical simulation of contemporary kinematics at the northeastern Tibetan Plateau and its implications for seismic hazard assessment
An efficient partial-differential-equation-based method to compute pressure boundary conditions in regional geodynamic models
The topographic signature of temperature-controlled rheological transitions in an accretionary prism
3D crustal stress state of Germany according to a data-calibrated geomechanical model
Looking beyond kinematics: 3D thermo-mechanical modelling reveals the dynamics of transform margins
Marine Larrey, Frédéric Mouthereau, Damien Do Couto, Emmanuel Masini, Anthony Jourdon, Sylvain Calassou, and Véronique Miegebielle
Solid Earth, 14, 1221–1244, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1221-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1221-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Extension leading to the formation of ocean–continental transition can be highly oblique to the main direction of crustal thinning. Here we explore the case of a continental margin exposed in the Betics that developed in a back-arc setting perpendicular to the direction of the retreating Gibraltar subduction. We show that transtension is the main mode of crustal deformation that led to the development of metamorphic domes and extensional intramontane basins.
Mousumi Roy
Solid Earth, 13, 1415–1430, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1415-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1415-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
This study investigates one of the key processes that may lead to the destruction and destabilization of continental tectonic plates: the infiltration of buoyant, hot, molten rock (magma) into the base of the plate. Using simple calculations, I suggest that heating during melt–rock interaction may thermally perturb the tectonic plate, weakening it and potentially allowing it to be reshaped from beneath. Geochemical, petrologic, and geologic observations are used to guide model parameters.
Liming Li, Xianrui Li, Fanyan Yang, Lili Pan, and Jingxiong Tian
Solid Earth, 13, 1371–1391, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1371-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1371-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
We constructed a three-dimensional numerical geomechanics model to obtain the continuous slip rates of active faults and crustal velocities in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Based on the analysis of the fault kinematics in the study area, we evaluated the possibility of earthquakes occurring in the main faults in the area, and analyzed the crustal deformation mechanism of the northeastern Tibetan Plateau.
Anthony Jourdon and Dave A. May
Solid Earth, 13, 1107–1125, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1107-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1107-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
In this study we present a method to compute a reference pressure based on density structure in which we cast the problem in terms of a partial differential equation (PDE). We show in the context of 3D models of continental rifting that using the pressure as a boundary condition within the flow problem results in non-cylindrical velocity fields, producing strain localization in the lithosphere along large-scale strike-slip shear zones and allowing the formation and evolution of triple junctions.
Sepideh Pajang, Laetitia Le Pourhiet, and Nadaya Cubas
Solid Earth, 13, 535–551, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-535-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-535-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The local topographic slope of an accretionary prism is often used to determine the effective friction on subduction megathrust. We investigate how the brittle–ductile and the smectite–illite transitions affect the topographic slope of an accretionary prism and its internal deformation to provide clues to determine the origin of observed low topographic slopes in subduction zones. We finally discuss their implications in terms of the forearc basin and forearc high genesis and nature.
Steffen Ahlers, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, Karsten Reiter, Birgit Müller, Luisa Röckel, Oliver Heidbach, Sophia Morawietz, Magdalena Scheck-Wenderoth, and Denis Anikiev
Solid Earth, 12, 1777–1799, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1777-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1777-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Knowledge about the stress state in the upper crust is of great importance for many economic and scientific questions. However, our knowledge in Germany is limited since available datasets only provide pointwise, incomplete and heterogeneous information. We present the first 3D geomechanical model that provides a continuous description of the contemporary crustal stress state for Germany. The model is calibrated by the orientation of the maximum horizontal stress and stress magnitudes.
Anthony Jourdon, Charlie Kergaravat, Guillaume Duclaux, and Caroline Huguen
Solid Earth, 12, 1211–1232, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1211-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1211-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
The borders between oceans and continents, called margins, can be convergent, divergent, or horizontally sliding. The formation of oceans occurs in a divergent context. However, some divergent margin structures display an accommodation of horizontal sliding during the opening of oceans. To study and understand how the horizontal sliding part occurring during divergence influences the margin structure, we performed 3D high-resolution numerical models evolving during tens of millions of years.
Cited articles
Abebe, T., Mazzarini, F., Innocenti, F., and Manetti, P.: The Yerer-Tullu
Wellel volcanotectonic lineament: A transtensional structure in central
Ethiopia and the associated magmatic activity, J. Afr. Earth
Sci., 26, 135–150, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0899-5362(97)00141-3, 1998.
Acocella, V., Faccenna, C., Funiciello, R., and Rossetti, F.: Sand-box
modelling of basement-controlled transfer zones in extensional domains,
Terra Nova-Oxford, 11, 149–156, 1999.
Adam, J., Urai, J., Wieneke, B., Oncken, O., Pfeiffer, K., Kukowski, N.,
Lohrmann, J., Hoth, S., Van Der Zee, W., and Schmatz, J.: Shear localisation
and strain distribution during tectonic faulting—New insights from
granular-flow experiments and high-resolution optical image correlation
techniques, J. Struct. Geol., 27, 283–301, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2004.08.008, 2005.
Allken, V., Huismans, R. S., and Thieulot, C.: Three-dimensional numerical
modeling of upper crustal extensional systems, J. Geophys.
Res.-Sol. Ea., 116, B10409, https://doi.org/10.1029/2011JB008319, 2011.
Allken, V., Huismans, R. S., and Thieulot, C.: Factors controlling the mode
of rift interaction in brittle-ductile coupled systems: A 3D numerical
study, Geochem. Geophy. Geosy., 13, Q05010, https://doi.org/10.1029/2012GC004077, 2012.
Allken, V., Huismans, R. S., Fossen, H., and Thieulot, C.: 3D numerical
modelling of graben interaction and linkage: a case study of the Canyonlands
grabens, Utah, Basin Res., 25, 436–449, https://doi.org/10.1111/bre.12010, 2013.
Anderson, E. M.: The dynamics of faulting, Transactions of the Edinburgh
Geological Society, 8, 387–402, https://doi.org/10.1144/transed.8.3.387, 1905.
Bellahsen, N. and Daniel, J. M.: Fault reactivation control on normal fault
growth: an experimental study, J. Struct. Geol., 27, 769–780,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2004.12.003, 2005.
Bonini, M., Corti, G., Innocenti, F., Manetti, P., Mazzarini, F., Abebe, T.,
and Pecskay, Z.: Evolution of the Main Ethiopian Rift in the frame of Afar
and Kenya rifts propagation, Tectonics, 24, TC1007, https://doi.org/10.1029/2004TC001680, 2005.
Bosworth, W.: Geometry of propagating continental rifts, Nature, 316,
625–627, https://doi.org/10.1038/316625a0, 1985.
Brune, S.: Evolution of stress and fault patterns in oblique rift systems:
3-D numerical lithospheric-scale experiments from rift to breakup,
Geochem. Geophy. Geosy., 15, 3392–3415, https://doi.org/10.1002/2014GC005446, 2014.
Brune, S. and Autin, J.: The rift to break-up evolution of the Gulf of Aden:
Insights from 3D numerical lithospheric-scale modelling, Tectonophysics,
607, 65–79, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2013.06.029, 2013.
Brune, S., Corti, G., and Ranalli, G.: Controls of inherited lithospheric
heterogeneity on rift linkage: Numerical and analog models of interaction
between the Kenyan and Ethiopian rifts across the Turkana depression,
Tectonics, 36, 1767–1786, https://doi.org/10.1002/2017TC004739,
2017.
Childs, C., Watterson, J., and Walsh, J.: Fault overlap zones within
developing normal fault systems, J. Geol. Soc., 152,
535–549, https://doi.org/10.1144/gsjgs.152.3.0535, 1995.
Collanega, L., Jackson, C. A.-L., Bell, R., Coleman, A. J., Lenhart, A., and
Breda, A.: How do intra-basement fabrics influence normal fault growth?
Insights from the Taranaki Basin, offshore New Zealand, Earth ArXiv [preprint], https://doi.org/10.31223/osf.io/8rn9u, 2018.
Corti, G.: Evolution and characteristics of continental rifting: Analog
modeling-inspired view and comparison with examples from the East African
Rift System, Tectonophysics, 522–523, 1–33,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2011.06.010, 2012.
Corti, G., van Wijk, J., Cloetingh, S., and Morley, C. K.: Tectonic
inheritance and continental rift architecture: Numerical and analogue models
of the East African Rift system, Tectonics, 26, TC6006, https://doi.org/10.1029/2006TC002086, 2007.
Corti, G., Philippon, M., Sani, F., Keir, D., and Kidane, T.: Re-orientation
of the extension direction and pure extensional faulting at oblique rift
margins: Comparison between the Main Ethiopian Rift and laboratory
experiments, Terra Nova, 25, 396–404, https://doi.org/10.1111/ter.12049, 2013.
Corti, G., Cioni, R., Franceschini, Z., Sani, F., Scaillet, S., Molin, P.,
Isola, I., Mazzarini, F., Brune, S., and Keir, D.: Aborted propagation of
the Ethiopian rift caused by linkage with the Kenyan rift, Nat.
Commun., 10, 1–11, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-019-09335-2, 2019.
Crameri, F., Shephard, G. E., and Heron, P. J.: The misuse of colour in
science communication, Nat. Commun., 11, 1–10, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-19160-7, 2020.
Daly, M., Chorowicz, J., and Fairhead, J.: Rift basin evolution in Africa:
the influence of reactivated steep basement shear zones, Geol. Soc.
Spec. Publ., 44, 309–334, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1989.044.01.17, 1989.
Duclaux, G., Huismans, R. S., and May, D. A.: Rotation, narrowing, and
preferential reactivation of brittle structures during oblique rifting,
Earth Planet. Sc. Lett., 531, 115952, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2019.115952, 2020.
Duffy, O. B., Bell, R. E., Jackson, C. A.-L., Gawthorpe, R. L., and Whipp,
P. S.: Fault growth and interactions in a multiphase rift fault network:
Horda Platform, Norwegian North Sea, J. Struct. Geol., 80,
99–119, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2015.08.015, 2015.
Duretz, T., de Borst, R., and Le Pourhiet, L.: Finite thickness of shear
bands in frictional viscoplasticity and implications for lithosphere
dynamics, Geochem. Geophy. Geosy., 20, 5598–5616, https://doi.org/10.1029/2019GC008531, 2019.
Ebinger, C., Yemane, T., Harding, D., Tesfaye, S., Kelley, S., and Rex, D.:
Rift deflection, migration, and propagation: Linkage of the Ethiopian and
Eastern rifts, Africa, Geol. Soc. Am. Bull., 112, 163–176,
https://doi.org/10.1130/0016-7606(2000)112<163:RDMAPL>2.0.CO;2, 2000.
Gapais, D., Cobbold, P. R., Bourgeois, O., Rouby, D., and de Urreiztieta,
M.: Tectonic significance of fault-slip data, J. Struct. Geol.,
22, 881–888, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191-8141(00)00015-8,
2000.
Gassmöller, R., Lokavarapu, H., Heien, E., Puckett, E. G., and Bangerth,
W.: Flexible and scalable particle-in-cell methods with adaptive mesh
refinement for geodynamic computations, Geochem. Geophy.,
Geosy., 19, 3596–3604, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018GC007508, 2018.
Glerum, A., Brune, S., Stamps, D. S., and Strecker, M. R.: Victoria
continental microplate dynamics controlled by the lithospheric strength
distribution of the East African Rift, Nat. Commun., 11, 1–15,
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-16176-x, 2020.
Glerum, A.:
anne-glerum/paper-Schmid-Tectonic-interactions-during-rift-linkage: Update
ASPECT branch (v.2.0.0), Zenodo [code], https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7701374, 2023.
Glerum, A., Thieulot, C., Fraters, M., Blom, C., and Spakman, W.: Nonlinear viscoplasticity in ASPECT: benchmarking and applications to subduction, Solid Earth, 9, 267–294, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-9-267-2018, 2018.
Gudmundsson, A., Simmenes, T. H., Larsen, B., and Philipp, S. L.: Effects of
internal structure and local stresses on fracture propagation, deflection,
and arrest in fault zones, J. Struct. Geol., 32, 1643–1655,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2009.08.013, 2010.
Heidbach, O., Rajabi, M., Cui, X., Fuchs, K., Müller, B., Reinecker, J.,
Reiter, K., Tingay, M., Wenzel, F., and Xie, F.: The World Stress Map
database release 2016: Crustal stress pattern across scales, Tectonophysics,
744, 484–498, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2018.07.007,
2018.
Heilman, E., Kolawole, F., Atekwana, E. A., and Mayle, M.: Controls of
Basement Fabric on the Linkage of Rift Segments, Tectonics, 38, 1337–1366,
https://doi.org/10.1029/2018TC005362,
2019.
Heister, T., Dannberg, J., Gassmöller, R., and Bangerth, W.: High
accuracy mantle convection simulation through modern numerical methods–II:
realistic models and problems, Geophys. J. Int., 210,
833–851, https://doi.org/10.1029/2018TC005362, 2017.
Jacquey, A. B. and Cacace, M.: Multiphysics modeling of a brittle-ductile
lithosphere: 2. Semi-brittle, semi-ductile deformation and damage rheology,
J. Geophys. Res.-Sol. Ea., 125, e2019JB018475, https://doi.org/10.1029/2019JB018475, 2020.
Kattenhorn, S. A., Aydin, A., and Pollard, D. D.: Joints at high angles to
normal fault strike: an explanation using 3-D numerical models of
fault-perturbed stress fields, J. Struct. Geol., 22, 1–23,
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191-8141(99)00130-3, 2000.
Katzman, R., ten Brink, U. S., and Lin, J.: Three-dimensional modeling of
pull-apart basins: Implications for the tectonics of the Dead Sea Basin,
J. Geophys. Res.-Sol. Ea., 100, 6295–6312, https://doi.org/10.1029/94JB03101, 1995.
Keranen, K. and Klemperer, S.: Discontinuous and diachronous evolution of
the Main Ethiopian Rift: Implications for development of continental rifts,
Earth Planet. Sc. Lett., 265, 96–111, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2007.09.038, 2008.
Koehn, D., Aanyu, K., Haines, S., and Sachau, T.: Rift nucleation, rift
propagation and the creation of basement micro-plates within active rifts,
Tectonophysics, 458, 105–116, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2007.10.003, 2008.
Kolawole, F., Phillips, T. B., Atekwana, E. A., and Jackson, C. A.-L.:
Structural inheritance controls strain distribution during early continental
rifting, rukwa rift, Front. Earth Sci., 670, 707869, https://doi.org/10.3389/feart.2021.707869, 2021.
Kolawole, F., Atekwana, E. A., Laó-Dávila, D. A., Abdelsalam, M. G.,
Chindandali, P. R., Salima, J., and Kalindekafe, L.: Active Deformation of
Malawi Rift's North Basin Hinge Zone Modulated by Reactivation of
Preexisting Precambrian Shear Zone Fabric, Tectonics, 37, 683–704,
https://doi.org/10.1002/2017TC004628,
2018.
Kronbichler, M., Heister, T., and Bangerth, W.: High accuracy mantle
convection simulation through modern numerical methods, Geophys. J.
Int., 191, 12–29, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-246X.2012.05609.x, 2012.
Lavier, L. L., Buck, W. R., and Poliakov, A. N.: Factors controlling normal
fault offset in an ideal brittle layer, J. Geophys. Res.-Sol. Ea., 105, 23431–23442, https://doi.org/10.1029/2000JB900108, 2000.
Macdonald, K. C. and Fox, P.: Overlapping spreading centres: New accretion
geometry on the East Pacific Rise, Nature, 302, 55–58, https://doi.org/10.1038/302055a0, 1983.
Mills, N.: Dislocation array elements for the analysis of crack and yielded
zone growth, J. Mater. Sci., 16, 1317–1331, https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01033848, 1981.
Mondy, L. S., Rey, P. F., Duclaux, G., and Moresi, L.: The role of
asthenospheric flow during rift propagation and breakup, Geology, 46,
103–106, https://doi.org/10.1130/G39674.1, 2018.
Morley, C.: Stress re-orientation along zones of weak fabrics in rifts: An
explanation for pure extension in “oblique” rift segments?, Earth
Planet. Sc. Lett., 297, 667–673, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2010.07.022, 2010.
Morley, C.: The impact of multiple extension events, stress rotation and
inherited fabrics on normal fault geometries and evolution in the Cenozoic
rift basins of Thailand, Geol. Soc. Spec. Publ.,
439, 413–445, https://doi.org/10.1144/SP439.3, 2017.
Morley, C., Nelson, R., Patton, T., and Munn, S.: Transfer zones in the East
African rift system and their relevance to hydrocarbon exploration in rifts,
AAPG Bull., 74, 1234–1253, https://doi.org/10.1306/0C9B2475-1710-11D7-8645000102C1865D, 1990.
Morley, C., Haranya, C., Phoosongsee, W., Pongwapee, S., Kornsawan, A., and
Wonganan, N.: Activation of rift oblique and rift parallel pre-existing
fabrics during extension and their effect on deformation style: examples
from the rifts of Thailand, J. Struct. Geol., 26, 1803–1829,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2004.02.014, 2004.
Morley, C. K.: Patterns of displacement along large normal faults:
implications for basin evolution and fault propagation, based on examples
from East Africa, AAPG Bull., 83, 613–634, https://doi.org/10.1306/00AA9C0A-1730-11D7-8645000102C1865D, 1999.
Muhabaw, Y., Muluneh, A. A., Nugsse, K., Gebru, E. F., and Kidane, T.:
Paleomagnetism of Gedemsa magmatic segment, Main Ethiopian Rift: Implication
for clockwise rotation of the segment in the Early Pleistocene,
Tectonophysics, 838, 229475, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2022.229475, 2022.
Nelson, R., Patton, T., and Morley, C.: Rift-segment interaction and its
relation to hydrocarbon exploration in continental rift systems, AAPG
Bull., 76, 1153–1169, https://doi.org/10.1306/BDFF898E-1718-11D7-8645000102C1865D, 1992.
Oliva, S. J., Ebinger, C. J., Rivalta, E., Williams, C. A., Wauthier, C.,
and Currie, C. A.: State of stress and stress rotations: Quantifying the
role of surface topography and subsurface density contrasts in magmatic rift
zones (Eastern Rift, Africa), Earth Planet. Sc. Lett., 584,
117478, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.epsl.2022.117478, 2022.
Philippon, M., Willingshofer, E., Sokoutis, D., Corti, G., Sani, F., Bonini,
M., and Cloetingh, S.: Slip re-orientation in oblique rifts, Geology, 43,
147–150, https://doi.org/10.1130/G36208.1, 2015.
Pollard, D. D. and Aydin, A.: Propagation and linkage of oceanic ridge
segments, J. Geophys. Res.-Sol. Ea., 89, 10017–10028,
https://doi.org/10.1029/JB089iB12p10017, 1984.
Rose, I., Buffett, B., and Heister, T.: Stability and accuracy of free
surface time integration in viscous flows, Phys. Earth
Planet. Int., 262, 90–100, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pepi.2016.11.007, 2017.
Rosendahl, B. R.: Architecture of continental rifts with special reference
to East Africa, Annu. Rev. Earth Pl. Sc., 15, 445,
https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.ea.15.050187.002305, 1987.
Schmid, T., Schreurs, G., Warsitzka, M., and Rosenau, M.: Effect of sieving
height on density and friction of brittle analogue material: ring-shear test
data of quarz sand used for analogue experiments in the Tectonic Modelling
Lab of the University of Bern, GFZ Data Services [data set], https://doi.org/10.5880/fidgeo.2020.006, 2020a.
Schmid, T., Schreurs, G., Warsitzka, M., and Rosenau, M.: Effect of sieving
height on density and friction of brittle analogue material: Ring-shear test
data of corundum sand used for analogue experiments in the Tectonic
Modelling Lab of the University of Bern (CH), GFZ Data Services [data set], https://doi.org/10.5880/fidgeo.2020.005, 2020b.
Schultz-Ela, D. and Walsh, P.: Modeling of grabens extending above
evaporites in Canyonlands National Park, Utah, J. Struct.
Geol., 24, 247–275, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191-8141(01)00066-9, 2002.
Tingay, M., Muller, B., Reinecker, J., and Heidbach, O.: State and origin of
the present-day stress field in sedimentary basins: New results from the
World Stress Map Project, Golden Rocks 2006, The 41st US Symposium on Rock
Mechanics (USRMS), 14 pp., ISBN 1604236221, 2006.
Tingay, M. R., Morley, C. K., Hillis, R. R., and Meyer, J.: Present-day
stress orientation in Thailand's basins, J. Struct. Geol., 32,
235–248, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2009.11.008, 2010.
Tron, V. and Brun, J.-P.: Experiments on oblique rifting in brittle-ductile
systems, Tectonophysics, 188, 71–84, https://doi.org/10.1016/0040-1951(91)90315-J, 1991.
Trudgill, B. D.: Structural controls on drainage development in the
Canyonlands grabens of southeast Utah, AAPG Bull., 86, 1095–1112,
https://doi.org/10.1306/61EEDC2E-173E-11D7-8645000102C1865D,
2002.
Willemse, E. J.: Segmented normal faults: Correspondence between
three-dimensional mechanical models and field data, J. Geophys.
Res.-Sol. Ea., 102, 675–692, https://doi.org/10.1029/96JB01651, 1997.
Willemse, E. J., Pollard, D. D., and Aydin, A.: Three-dimensional analyses
of slip distributions on normal fault arrays with consequences for fault
scaling, J. Struct. Geol., 18, 295–309, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191-8141(96)80051-4, 1996.
Withjack, M. O. and Jamison, W. R.: Deformation produced by oblique rifting,
Tectonophysics, 126, 99–124, https://doi.org/10.1016/0040-1951(86)90222-2, 1986.
Zoback, M. L.: First-and second-order patterns of stress in the lithosphere:
The World Stress Map Project, J. Geophys. Res.-Sol. Ea.,
97, 11703–11728, https://doi.org/10.1029/92JB00132, 1992.
Zwaan, F. and Schreurs, G.: How oblique extension and structural inheritance
influence rift segment interaction: Insights from 4D analog models,
Interpretation, 5, SD119–SD138, https://doi.org/10.1190/INT-2016-0063.1, 2017.
Zwaan, F., Schreurs, G., Naliboff, J., and Buiter, S. J. H.: Insights into
the effects of oblique extension on continental rift interaction from 3D
analogue and numerical models, Tectonophysics, 693, 239–260,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2016.02.036, 2016.
Zwaan, F., Schreurs, G., Ritter, M., Santimano, T., and Rosenau, M.:
Rheology of PDMS-corundum sand mixtures from the Tectonic Modelling Lab of
the University of Bern (CH), GFZ Data Services [data set], https://doi.org/10.5880/fidgeo.2018.023, 2018.
Short summary
Continental rifts form by linkage of individual rift segments and disturb the regional stress field. We use analog and numerical models of such rift segment interactions to investigate the linkage of deformation and stresses and subsequent stress deflections from the regional stress pattern. This local stress re-orientation eventually causes rift deflection when multiple rift segments compete for linkage with opposingly propagating segments and may explain rift deflection as observed in nature.
Continental rifts form by linkage of individual rift segments and disturb the regional stress...
