Articles | Volume 6, issue 2
https://doi.org/10.5194/se-6-533-2015
© Author(s) 2015. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/se-6-533-2015
© Author(s) 2015. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.
Research article
| 
21 May 2015
Research article |
| 21 May 2015
Stress field sensitivity analysis in a sedimentary sequence of the Alpine foreland, northern Switzerland
T. Hergert
CORRESPONDING AUTHOR
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute of Applied Geosciences, Adenauerring 20b, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
now at: TU Darmstadt, Institute of Applied Geosciences, Schnittspahnstr. 9, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
O. Heidbach
GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Section 2.6 Seismic Hazard and Stress Field, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
K. Reiter
University of Potsdam, Inst. of Earth and Environmental Science, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24–25, 14476 Potsdam-Golm, Germany
GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Section 2.6 Seismic Hazard and Stress Field, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
now at: TU Darmstadt, Institute of Applied Geosciences, Schnittspahnstr. 9, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
S. B. Giger
NAGRA, National Cooperative for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste, 5430 Wettingen, Switzerland
P. Marschall
NAGRA, National Cooperative for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste, 5430 Wettingen, Switzerland
Related authors
Luisa Röckel, Steffen Ahlers, Sophia Morawietz, Birgit Müller, Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, and Frank Schilling
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 77–78, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-77-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-77-2021, 2021
Karsten Reiter, Steffen Ahlers, Sophia Morawietz, Luisa Röckel, Tobias Hergert, Andreas Henk, Birgit Müller, and Oliver Heidbach
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 75–76, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-75-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-75-2021, 2021
Steffen Ahlers, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, Karsten Reiter, Birgit Müller, Luisa Röckel, Oliver Heidbach, Sophia Morawietz, Magdalena Scheck-Wenderoth, and Denis Anikiev
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 163–164, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-163-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-163-2021, 2021
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.
Denise Degen, Moritz Ziegler, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Karsten Reiter, and Florian Wellmann
Solid Earth, 16, 477–502, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-477-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-477-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Obtaining reliable estimates of the subsurface state distributions is essential to determine the location of, e.g., potential nuclear waste disposal sites. However, providing these is challenging since it requires solving the problem numerous times, yielding high computational cost. To overcome this, we use a physics-based machine learning method to construct surrogate models. We demonstrate how it produces physics-preserving predictions, which differentiates it from purely data-driven approaches.
Sarah Diekmeier, Karsten Reiter, Andreas Henk, and Colin Friebe
Earth Syst. Sci. Data Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-2024-489, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-2024-489, 2025
Manuscript not accepted for further review
Short summary
Short summary
The study explores the potential for storing carbon-rich products in Germany to support climate goals. Using geological data, we identified old mining sites suitable for storing products like graphite and oxalate from negative emissions technologies. Results show significant storage potential, both above and below ground, offering a sustainable solution. By reusing existing mining areas, Germany can advance towards carbon neutrality, reducing costs and environmental impact.
Antonio J. Olaiz, José A. Álvarez Gómez, Gerardo de Vicente, Alfonso Muñoz-Martín, Juan V. Cantavella, Susana Custódio, Dina Vales, and Oliver Heidbach
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4126, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4126, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Understanding the stress and strain conditions in the Earth crust is crucial for various activities, such as oil and gas exploration and assessing seismic hazards. In this article, we have updated the database of moment tensor focal mechanisms for the Greater Iberia. We conducted kinematic and dynamic analyses on the selected populations, determining the average focal mechanism, strain and stress orientations, and tectonic regime. The orientation for horizontal compression is primarily N154° E.
Moritz O. Ziegler, Robin Seithel, Thomas Niederhuber, Oliver Heidbach, Thomas Kohl, Birgit Müller, Mojtaba Rajabi, Karsten Reiter, and Luisa Röckel
Solid Earth, 15, 1047–1063, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1047-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1047-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The rotation of the principal stress axes in a fault structure because of a rock stiffness contrast has been investigated for the impact of the ratio of principal stresses, the angle between principal stress axes and fault strike, and the ratio of the rock stiffness contrast. A generic 2D geomechanical model is employed for the systematic investigation of the parameter space.
Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, and Moritz O. Ziegler
Solid Earth, 15, 305–327, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-305-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-305-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
It is generally assumed that faults have an influence on the stress state of the Earth’s crust. It is questionable whether this influence is still present far away from a fault. Simple numerical models were used to investigate the extent of the influence of faults on the stress state. Several models with different fault representations were investigated. The stress fluctuations further away from the fault (> 1 km) are very small.
Oliver Heidbach, Karsten Reiter, Moritz O. Ziegler, and Birgit Müller
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 185–185, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-185-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-185-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
When stresses yield a critical value, rock breaks and generate pathways for fluid migration. Thus, the contemporary undisturbed stress state is a key parameter for assessing the stability of deep geological repositories. In this workshop you can ask everything you always wanted to know about stress (but were afraid to ask), and this is divided into three parts. 1) How do we formally describe the stress field? 2) How do we to actually measure stress? 3) How do we go from points to 3D description?
Moritz O. Ziegler, Oliver Heidbach, and Mojtaba Rajabi
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 79–80, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-79-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-79-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The subsurface is subject to constant stress. With increasing depth, more rock overlies an area, thereby increasing the stress. There is also constant stress from the sides. Knowledge of this stress is fundamental to build lasting and safe underground structures. Very few data on the stress state are available; thus, computer models are used to predict this parameter. We present a method to improve the quality of the computer models, even if no direct data on the stress state are available.
Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, Moritz Ziegler, Silvio Giger, Rodney Garrard, and Jean Desroches
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 71–72, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-71-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-71-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Numerical methods can be used to estimate the stress state in the Earth’s upper crust. Measured stress data are needed for model calibration. High-quality stress data are available for the calibration of models for possible radioactive waste repositories in Switzerland. A best-fit model predicts the stress state for each point within the model volume. In this study, variable rock properties are used to predict the potential stress variations due to inhomogeneous rock properties.
Luisa Röckel, Steffen Ahlers, Sophia Morawietz, Birgit Müller, Tobias Hergert, Karsten Reiter, Andreas Henk, Moritz Ziegler, Oliver Heidbach, and Frank Schilling
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 73–73, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-73-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-73-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Stress data predicted by a geomechanical–numerical model are mapped onto 3D fault geometries. Then the slip tendency of these faults is calculated as a measure of their reactivation potential. Characteristics of the faults and the state of stress are identified that lead to a high fault reactivation potential. An overall high reactivation potential is observed in the Upper Rhine Graben area, whereas the reactivation potential is quite low in the Molasse Basin.
Tobias Hergert, Steffen Ahlers, Luisa Röckel, Sophia Morawietz, Karsten Reiter, Moritz Ziegler, Birgit Müller, Oliver Heidbach, Frank Schilling, and Andreas Henk
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 65–65, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-65-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-65-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
In numerical geomechanical models, an initial stress state is established before displacement boundary conditions are applied in order to match calibration data. We present generic models to show that the choice of initial stress and boundary conditions affects the final state of stress in areas of the model domain where no stress data for calibration are available. These deviations are largest in the vicinity of lithological interfaces, and they can be reduced if more stress data exist.
Steffen Ahlers, Karsten Reiter, Tobias Hergert, Andreas Henk, Luisa Röckel, Sophia Morawietz, Oliver Heidbach, Moritz Ziegler, and Birgit Müller
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 59–59, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-59-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-59-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The recent crustal stress state is a crucial parameter in the search for a high-level nuclear waste repository. We present results of a 3D geomechanical numerical model that improves the state of knowledge by providing a continuum-mechanics-based prediction of the recent crustal stress field in Germany. The model results can be used, for example, for the calculation of fracture potential, for slip tendency analyses or as boundary conditions for smaller local models.
Chao Li, Dominik Zbinden, Mohamed Hayek, Michael J. Hannon, Alexandros Papafotiou, and Paul Marschall
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 2, 137–137, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-137-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-2-137-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
The work presents decades of experience of performance assessment to support selection process in Switzerland, which includes complex THMC coupled physical processes, lifecycle assessment, probabilistic assessment, and integrated regional-, repository-, component-scale models. The final evaluation was made integrating a wide range of information, including regional stress conditions, tectonic structures, stratigraphy, lithology, mineralogy, and the impact from effects induced by the repository.
Michal Kruszewski, Alessandro Verdecchia, Oliver Heidbach, Rebecca M. Harrington, and David Healy
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1889, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2023-1889, 2023
Preprint archived
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we investigate the evolution of fault reactivation potential in the greater Ruhr region (Germany) in respect to a future utilization of deep geothermal resources. We use analytical and numerical approaches to understand the initial stress conditions on faults as well as their evolution in space and time during geothermal fluid production. Using results from our analyses, we can localize areas more favorable for geothermal energy use based on fault reactivation potential.
Michal Kruszewski, Gerd Klee, Thomas Niederhuber, and Oliver Heidbach
Earth Syst. Sci. Data, 14, 5367–5385, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-14-5367-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/essd-14-5367-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The authors assemble an in situ stress magnitude and orientation database based on 429 hydrofracturing tests that were carried out in six coal mines and two coal bed methane boreholes between 1986 and 1995 within the greater Ruhr region (Germany). Our study summarises the results of the extensive in situ stress test campaign and assigns quality to each data record using the established quality ranking schemes of the World Stress Map project.
Luisa Röckel, Steffen Ahlers, Birgit Müller, Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, and Frank Schilling
Solid Earth, 13, 1087–1105, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1087-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1087-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Reactivation of tectonic faults can lead to earthquakes and jeopardize underground operations. The reactivation potential is linked to fault properties and the tectonic stress field. We create 3D geometries for major faults in Germany and use stress data from a 3D geomechanical–numerical model to calculate their reactivation potential and compare it to seismic events. The reactivation potential in general is highest for NNE–SSW- and NW–SE-striking faults and strongly depends on the fault dip.
Moritz Ziegler and Oliver Heidbach
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 187–188, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-187-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-187-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
The Earth's crust is subject to constant stress which is manifested by earthquakes at plate boundaries. This stress is not only at plate boundaries but everywhere in the crust. A profound knowledge of the magnitude and orientation of the stress is important to select and build a safe deep geological repository for nuclear waste. We demonstrate how to build computer models of the stress state and show how to deal with the associated uncertainties.
Luisa Röckel, Steffen Ahlers, Sophia Morawietz, Birgit Müller, Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, and Frank Schilling
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 77–78, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-77-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-77-2021, 2021
Karsten Reiter, Steffen Ahlers, Sophia Morawietz, Luisa Röckel, Tobias Hergert, Andreas Henk, Birgit Müller, and Oliver Heidbach
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 75–76, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-75-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-75-2021, 2021
Steffen Ahlers, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, Karsten Reiter, Birgit Müller, Luisa Röckel, Oliver Heidbach, Sophia Morawietz, Magdalena Scheck-Wenderoth, and Denis Anikiev
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 163–164, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-163-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-163-2021, 2021
Sophia Morawietz, Moritz Ziegler, Karsten Reiter, and the SpannEnD Project Team
Saf. Nucl. Waste Disposal, 1, 71–72, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-71-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/sand-1-71-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Knowledge of the crustal stress state is important for the assessment of subsurface stability. In particular, stress magnitudes are essential for the calibration of geomechanical models that estimate a continuous description of the 3-D stress field from pointwise and incomplete stress data. We present the first comprehensive and open-access stress magnitude database for Germany, consisting of 568 data records. We introduce a quality ranking scheme for stress magnitude data for the first time.
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.
Karsten Reiter
Solid Earth, 12, 1287–1307, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1287-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-1287-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
The influence and interaction of elastic material properties (Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio), density and low-friction faults on the resulting far-field stress pattern in the Earth's crust is tested with generic models. A Young's modulus contrast can lead to a significant stress rotation. Discontinuities with low friction in homogeneous models change the stress pattern only slightly, away from the fault. In addition, active discontinuities are able to compensate stress rotation.
Ershad Gholamrezaie, Magdalena Scheck-Wenderoth, Judith Bott, Oliver Heidbach, and Manfred R. Strecker
Solid Earth, 10, 785–807, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-10-785-2019, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-10-785-2019, 2019
Short summary
Short summary
Based on geophysical data integration and 3-D gravity modeling, we show that significant density heterogeneities are expressed as two large high-density bodies in the crust below the Sea of Marmara. The location of these bodies correlates spatially with the bends of the main Marmara fault, indicating that rheological contrasts in the crust may influence the fault kinematics. Our findings may have implications for seismic hazard and risk assessments in the Marmara region.
Moritz O. Ziegler, Oliver Heidbach, John Reinecker, Anna M. Przybycin, and Magdalena Scheck-Wenderoth
Solid Earth, 7, 1365–1382, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-7-1365-2016, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-7-1365-2016, 2016
Short summary
Short summary
Subsurface engineering relies on sparsely distributed data points of the stress state of the earth's crust. 3D geomechanical--numerical modelling is applied to estimate the stress state in the entire volume of a large area. We present a multi-stage approach of differently sized models which provide the stress state in an area of interest derived from few and widely scattered data records. Furthermore we demonstrate the changes in reliability of the model depending on different input parameters.
K. Reiter and O. Heidbach
Solid Earth, 5, 1123–1149, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-5-1123-2014, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-5-1123-2014, 2014
Related subject area
Tectonics
Evidence for multi-rifting in the Variscan–Alpine cycle transition: insights from the European western Southern Alps
Importance of forearc topography for the triggering of aftershocks of megathrust earthquakes: insights from mechanical models and the Tohoku-Oki and Maule earthquakes
About the trustworthiness of physics-based machine learning – considerations for geomechanical applications
Relict landscape evolution and fault reactivation in the eastern Tian Shan: insights from the Harlik Mountains
Switching extensional and contractional tectonics in the West Kunlun Mountains during the Jurassic period: responses to the Neo-Tethyan geodynamics along the Eurasian margin
Seismo-tectonics of Greater Iberia: An updated review
Modelling the thermal evolution of extensional basins through lithosphere stretching factors: application to the NW part of the Pannonian Basin
Influence of lateral heterogeneities on strike-slip fault behaviour: insights from analogue models
Importance of basement faulting and salt decoupling for the structural evolution of the Fars Arc (Zagros fold-and-thrust belt): a numerical modeling approach
Low-temperature thermochronology and its geological significance in the central and northern section of the western margin of the Ordos Basin
On the role of trans-lithospheric faults in the long-term seismotectonic segmentation of active margins: a case study in the Andes
Along-strike variation in volcanic addition controlling post-breakup sedimentary infill: Pelotas margin, austral South Atlantic
Stress state at faults: the influence of rock stiffness contrast, stress orientation, and ratio
(D)rifting in the 21st century: key processes, natural hazards, and geo-resources
Interseismic and long-term deformation of southeastern Sicily driven by the Ionian slab roll-back
Rift and plume: a discussion on active and passive rifting mechanisms in the Afro-Arabian rift based on synthesis of geophysical data
Propagating rifts: the roles of crustal damage and ascending mantle fluids
Magma-poor continent–ocean transition zones of the southern North Atlantic: a wide-angle seismic synthesis of a new frontier
Cretaceous–Paleocene extension at the southwestern continental margin of India and opening of the Laccadive basin: constraints from geophysical data
Extensional exhumation of cratons: insights from the Early Cretaceous Rio Negro–Juruena belt (Amazonian Craton, Colombia)
Hydrogen solubility of stishovite provides insights into water transportation to the deep Earth
Networks of geometrically coherent faults accommodate Alpine tectonic inversion offshore southwestern Iberia
Oblique rifting triggered by slab tearing: the case of the Alboran rifted margin in the eastern Betics
Melt-enhanced strain localization and phase mixing in a large-scale mantle shear zone (Ronda peridotite, Spain)
Selective inversion of rift basins in lithospheric-scale analogue experiments
The link between Somalian Plate rotation and the East African Rift System: an analogue modelling study
Inversion of extensional basins parallel and oblique to their boundaries: inferences from analogue models and field observations from the Dolomites Indenter, European eastern Southern Alps
Magnetic fabric analyses of basin inversion: a sandbox modelling approach
Tectonic interactions during rift linkage: insights from analog and numerical experiments
The influence of crustal strength on rift geometry and development – insights from 3D numerical modelling
Construction of the Ukrainian Carpathian wedge from low-temperature thermochronology and tectono-stratigraphic analysis
Analogue modelling of basin inversion: a review and future perspectives
Insights into the interaction of a shale with CO2
Tectonostratigraphic evolution of the Slyne Basin
Assessing the role of thermal disequilibrium in the evolution of the lithosphere–asthenosphere boundary: an idealized model of heat exchange during channelized melt transport
Control of crustal strength, tectonic inheritance, and stretching/ shortening rates on crustal deformation and basin reactivation: insights from laboratory models
Numerical simulation of contemporary kinematics at the northeastern Tibetan Plateau and its implications for seismic hazard assessment
Late Cretaceous–early Palaeogene inversion-related tectonic structures at the northeastern margin of the Bohemian Massif (southwestern Poland and northern Czechia)
A tectonic-rules-based mantle reference frame since 1 billion years ago – implications for supercontinent cycles and plate–mantle system evolution
An efficient partial-differential-equation-based method to compute pressure boundary conditions in regional geodynamic models
The analysis of slip tendency of major tectonic faults in Germany
Earthquake ruptures and topography of the Chilean margin controlled by plate interface deformation
Together but separate: decoupled Variscan (late Carboniferous) and Alpine (Late Cretaceous–Paleogene) inversion tectonics in NW Poland
Late Quaternary faulting in the southern Matese (Italy): implications for earthquake potential and slip rate variability in the southern Apennines
The topographic signature of temperature-controlled rheological transitions in an accretionary prism
Rare earth elements associated with carbonatite–alkaline complexes in western Rajasthan, India: exploration targeting at regional scale
Exhumation and erosion of the Northern Apennines, Italy: new insights from low-temperature thermochronometers
Structural complexities and tectonic barriers controlling recent seismic activity in the Pollino area (Calabria–Lucania, southern Italy) – constraints from stress inversion and 3D fault model building
The Mid Atlantic Appalachian Orogen Traverse: a comparison of virtual and on-location field-based capstone experiences
Chronology of thrust propagation from an updated tectono-sedimentary framework of the Miocene molasse (western Alps)
Emanuele Scaramuzzo, Franz A. Livio, Maria Giuditta Fellin, and Colin Maden
Solid Earth, 16, 619–640, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-619-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-619-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
We address the transition between the Paleozoic Variscan and Alpine Mesozoic–Cenozoic cycles using tectono-stratigraphy and thermochronology. This transition unfolds through a multi-phase rifting history. An initial rifting stage occurred in the early Permian, followed in the early–middle Permian by a phase of transcurrent tectonics. This was succeeded by a period of erosion/non-deposition in the middle Permian. Crustal stretching in the Middle Triassic marked the onset of the Alpine cycle.
Armin Dielforder, Gian Maria Bocchini, and Andrea Hampel
Solid Earth, 16, 593–618, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-593-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-593-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Subduction zones feature a large elevation difference between the deep oceanic trench and the high mountains on land, which causes stress in the upper plate. We investigate how the topographic stress affects the aftershock seismicity of large subduction earthquakes using analytical and numerical stress models. We show that topographic stress has a large influence on aftershock seismicity and promoted most of the seismicity after the Tohoku-Oki (Japan) and Maule (Chile) earthquakes.
Denise Degen, Moritz Ziegler, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Karsten Reiter, and Florian Wellmann
Solid Earth, 16, 477–502, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-477-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-477-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Obtaining reliable estimates of the subsurface state distributions is essential to determine the location of, e.g., potential nuclear waste disposal sites. However, providing these is challenging since it requires solving the problem numerous times, yielding high computational cost. To overcome this, we use a physics-based machine learning method to construct surrogate models. We demonstrate how it produces physics-preserving predictions, which differentiates it from purely data-driven approaches.
Zihao Zhao, Tianyi Shen, Guocan Wang, Peter van der Beek, Yabo Zhou, and Cheng Ma
Solid Earth, 16, 503–530, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-503-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-503-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
This study examines the evolution of the Harlik Mountains in the eastern Tian Shan. Low-relief surfaces were formed by the Early Cretaceous erosion and subsequent tectonic stability. Later fault activity segmented these surfaces, with uplift and tilting in the Cenozoic driven by tectonic reactivation. These findings provide insights into how landscapes evolve in response to geological and environmental changes over millions of years.
Hong-Xiang Wu, Han-Lin Chen, Andrew V. Zuza, Yildirim Dilek, Du-Wei Qiu, Qi-Ye Lu, Feng-Qi Zhang, Xiao-Gan Cheng, and Xiu-Bin Lin
Solid Earth, 16, 155–177, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-155-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-155-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
The Tethyan orogenic belt records an extensive history of subduction along the southern margin of Eurasia. We examine the magmatism, stratigraphy, and sedimentary provenance of the Jurassic basin in the West Kunlun Mountains, highlighting the switching extensional and contractional tectonic episodes in central Asia. The complex evolution was related to the subduction of the Neo-Tethys Ocean, transitioning from southward retreat to northward flat-slab advancement.
Antonio J. Olaiz, José A. Álvarez Gómez, Gerardo de Vicente, Alfonso Muñoz-Martín, Juan V. Cantavella, Susana Custódio, Dina Vales, and Oliver Heidbach
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4126, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-4126, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
Understanding the stress and strain conditions in the Earth crust is crucial for various activities, such as oil and gas exploration and assessing seismic hazards. In this article, we have updated the database of moment tensor focal mechanisms for the Greater Iberia. We conducted kinematic and dynamic analyses on the selected populations, determining the average focal mechanism, strain and stress orientations, and tectonic regime. The orientation for horizontal compression is primarily N154° E.
Eszter Békési, Jan-Diederik van Wees, Kristóf Porkoláb, Mátyás Hencz, and Márta Berkesi
Solid Earth, 16, 45–61, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-45-2025, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-16-45-2025, 2025
Short summary
Short summary
We present a workflow to model the temperature distribution within the lithosphere of sedimentary basins and apply it to NW Hungary. The model can reproduce the thermal evolution through basin formation, making use of temperature measurements from wells. Models provide key input to constrain geodynamic processes and geo-energy resource potential.
Sandra González-Muñoz, Guido Schreurs, Timothy C. Schmid, and Fidel Martín-González
Solid Earth, 15, 1509–1523, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1509-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1509-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This work investigates how strike-slip faults propagate across domains with lateral contrasting brittle strength using analogue models. The introduction of brittle vertical domains was achieved using quartz microbead sand. The reference vertical domains influence synthetic fault propagation, segmentation, and linkage, as well as the antithetic faults which rotate about a vertical axis due to the applied simple shear. The results aligned with the faults in the NW of the Iberian Peninsula.
Fatemeh Gomar, Jonas B. Ruh, Mahdi Najafi, and Farhad Sobouti
Solid Earth, 15, 1479–1507, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1479-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1479-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Our study investigates the structural evolution of the Fars Arc in the Zagros Mountains through numerical modeling. We focus on the effects of the interaction between basement faults and salt décollement levels during tectonic inversion, including a rifting and a convergence phase. In conclusion, our results emphasize the importance of considering fault geometry, salt rheology, and basement involvement in understanding the resistance to deformation and the seismic behavior of fold–thrust belts.
Guangyuan Xing, Zhanli Ren, Kai Qi, Sasa Guo, Yanzhao Liu, Ying Zhang, and Huaping Lan
EGUsphere, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-3191, https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2024-3191, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In this study, we accurately constrain the uplift and cooling history of the central and northern western Ordos Basin using apatite fission tracks and (U-Th)/He dating methods, and reveal significant differences in the timing and intensity of uplift in different regions. These findings highlight spatial differences in the timing and rate of uplift in the western Ordos Basin. This suggests that the Yanshan orogenic movement had the most significant tectonic influence on the study area.
Gonzalo Yanez C., Jose Piquer R., and Orlando Rivera H.
Solid Earth, 15, 1319–1342, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1319-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1319-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We postulate that the observed spatial distribution of large earthquakes in active convergence zones, organised in segments where large events are repeated every 100–300 years, depends on large-scale continental faults and fluid release from the subducting slab. In order to support this model, we use proxies at different spatial and temporal scales (historic seismicity, megathrust slip solutions, inter-seismic cumulative seismicity, GPS/viscous plate coupling, and coastline morphology).
Marlise C. Cassel, Nick Kusznir, Gianreto Manatschal, and Daniel Sauter
Solid Earth, 15, 1265–1279, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1265-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1265-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We investigate the along-strike variation in volcanics on the Pelotas segment of the Brazilian margin created during continental breakup and formation of the southern South Atlantic. We show that the volume of volcanics strongly controls the amount of space available for post-breakup sedimentation. We also show that breakup varies along-strike from very magma-rich to magma-normal within a relatively short distance of less than 300 km. This is not as expected from a simple mantle plume model.
Moritz O. Ziegler, Robin Seithel, Thomas Niederhuber, Oliver Heidbach, Thomas Kohl, Birgit Müller, Mojtaba Rajabi, Karsten Reiter, and Luisa Röckel
Solid Earth, 15, 1047–1063, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1047-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-1047-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The rotation of the principal stress axes in a fault structure because of a rock stiffness contrast has been investigated for the impact of the ratio of principal stresses, the angle between principal stress axes and fault strike, and the ratio of the rock stiffness contrast. A generic 2D geomechanical model is employed for the systematic investigation of the parameter space.
Frank Zwaan, Tiago M. Alves, Patricia Cadenas, Mohamed Gouiza, Jordan J. J. Phethean, Sascha Brune, and Anne C. Glerum
Solid Earth, 15, 989–1028, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-989-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-989-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Rifting and the break-up of continents are key aspects of Earth’s plate tectonic system. A thorough understanding of the geological processes involved in rifting, and 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.
Amélie Viger, Stéphane Dominguez, Stéphane Mazzotti, Michel Peyret, Maxime Henriquet, Giovanni Barreca, Carmelo Monaco, and Adrien Damon
Solid Earth, 15, 965–988, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-965-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-965-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
New satellite geodetic data (PS-InSAR) evidence a generalized subsidence and an eastward tilting of southeastern Sicily combined with a local relative uplift along its eastern coast. We perform flexural and elastic modeling and show that the slab pull force induced by the Ionian slab roll-back and extrado deformation reproduce the measured surface deformation. Finally, we propose an original seismic cycle model that is mainly driven by the southward migration of the Ionian slab roll-back.
Ran Issachar, Peter Haas, Nico Augustin, and Jörg Ebbing
Solid Earth, 15, 807–826, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-807-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-807-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
In this contribution, we explore the causal relationship between the arrival of the Afar plume and the initiation of the Afro-Arabian rift. We mapped the rift architecture in the triple-junction region using geophysical data and reviewed the available geological data. We interpret a progressive development of the plume–rift system and suggest an interaction between active and passive mechanisms in which the plume provided a push force that changed the kinematics of the associated plates.
Folarin Kolawole and Rasheed Ajala
Solid Earth, 15, 747–762, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-747-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-747-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
We investigate the upper-crustal structure of the Rukwa–Tanganyika rift zone in East Africa, where the Tanganyika rift interacts with the Rukwa and Mweru-Wantipa rifts, coinciding with abundant seismicity at the rift tips. Seismic velocity structure and patterns of seismicity clustering reveal zones around 10 km deep with anomalously high Vp / Vs ratios at the rift tips, indicative of a localized mechanically weakened crust caused by mantle volatiles and damage associated with bending strain.
J. Kim Welford
Solid Earth, 15, 683–710, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-683-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-683-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
I present a synthesis of the continent–ocean boundaries of the southern North Atlantic Ocean, as probed using seismic methods for rock velocity estimation, to assess their deep structures from the crust to the upper mantle and to discuss how they were formed. With this knowledge, it is possible to start evaluating these regions of the Earth for their capacity to produce hydrogen and critical minerals and to store excess carbon dioxide, all with the goal of greening our economy.
Mathews George Gilbert, Parakkal Unnikrishnan, and Munukutla Radhakrishna
Solid Earth, 15, 671–682, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-671-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-671-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
The study identifies evidence for extension south of Tellicherry Arch along the southwestern continental margin of India through the integrated analysis of multichannel seismic and gravity data. The sediment deposition pattern indicates that this extension occurred after the Eocene. We further propose that the anticlockwise rotation of India and the passage of the Réunion plume have facilitated the opening of the Laccadive basin.
Ana Fonseca, Simon Nachtergaele, Amed Bonilla, Stijn Dewaele, and Johan De Grave
Solid Earth, 15, 329–352, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-329-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-329-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
This study explores the erosion and exhumation processes and history of early continental crust hidden within the Amazonian Rainforest. This crust forms part of the Amazonian Craton, an ancient continental fragment. Our surprising findings reveal the area underwent rapid early Cretaceous exhumation triggered by tectonic forces. This discovery challenges the traditional perception that cratons are stable and long-lived entities and shows they can deform readily under specific geological contexts.
Mengdan Chen, Changxin Yin, Danling Chen, Long Tian, Liang Liu, and Lei Kang
Solid Earth, 15, 215–227, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-215-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-215-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Stishovite remains stable under mantle conditions and can incorporate various amounts of water in its crystal structure. We provide a systematic review of previous studies on water in stishovite and propose a new model for water solubility of Al-bearing stishovite. Calculation results based on this model suggest that stishovite may effectively accommodate water from the breakdown of hydrous minerals and could make an important contribution to water enrichment in the mantle transition zone.
Tiago M. Alves
Solid Earth, 15, 39–62, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-39-2024, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-15-39-2024, 2024
Short summary
Short summary
Alpine tectonic inversion is reviewed for southwestern Iberia, known for its historical earthquakes and tsunamis. High-quality 2D seismic data image 26 faults mapped to a depth exceeding 10 km. Normal faults accommodated important vertical uplift and shortening. They are 100–250 km long and may generate earthquakes with Mw > 8.0. Regions of Late Mesozoic magmatism comprise thickened, harder crust, forming lateral buttresses to compression and promoting the development of fold-and-thrust belts.
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.
Sören Tholen, Jolien Linckens, and Gernold Zulauf
Solid Earth, 14, 1123–1154, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1123-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-1123-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Intense phase mixing with homogeneously distributed secondary phases and irregular grain boundaries and shapes indicates that metasomatism formed the microstructures predominant in the shear zone of the NW Ronda peridotite. Amphibole presence, olivine crystal orientations, and the consistency to the Beni Bousera peridotite (Morocco) point to OH-bearing metasomatism by small fractions of evolved melts. Results confirm a strong link between reactions and localized deformation in the upper mantle.
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.
Anna-Katharina Sieberer, Ernst Willingshofer, Thomas Klotz, Hugo Ortner, and Hannah Pomella
Solid Earth, 14, 647–681, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-647-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-647-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Through analogue models and field observations, we investigate how inherited platform–basin geometries control strain localisation, style, and orientation of reactivated and new structures during inversion. Our study shows that the style of evolving thrusts and their changes along-strike are controlled by pre-existing rheological discontinuities. The results of this study are relevant for understanding inversion structures in general and for the European eastern Southern Alps in particular.
Thorben Schöfisch, Hemin Koyi, and Bjarne Almqvist
Solid Earth, 14, 447–461, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-447-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-447-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
A magnetic fabric analysis provides information about the reorientation of magnetic grains and is applied to three sandbox models that simulate different stages of basin inversion. The analysed magnetic fabrics reflect the different developed structures and provide insights into the different deformed stages of basin inversion. It is a first attempt of applying magnetic fabric analyses to basin inversion sandbox models but shows the possibility of applying it to such models.
Timothy Chris Schmid, Sascha Brune, Anne Glerum, and Guido Schreurs
Solid Earth, 14, 389–407, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-389-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-389-2023, 2023
Short summary
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.
Thomas B. Phillips, John B. Naliboff, Ken J. W. McCaffrey, Sophie Pan, Jeroen van Hunen, and Malte Froemchen
Solid Earth, 14, 369–388, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-369-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-369-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
Continental crust comprises bodies of varying strength, formed through numerous tectonic events. When subject to extension, these areas produce distinct rift and fault systems. We use 3D models to examine how rifts form above
strongand
weakareas of crust. We find that faults become more developed in weak areas. Faults are initially stopped at the boundaries with stronger areas before eventually breaking through. We relate our model observations to rift systems globally.
Marion Roger, Arjan de Leeuw, Peter van der Beek, Laurent Husson, Edward R. Sobel, Johannes Glodny, and Matthias Bernet
Solid Earth, 14, 153–179, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-153-2023, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-14-153-2023, 2023
Short summary
Short summary
We study the construction of the Ukrainian Carpathians with LT thermochronology (AFT, AHe, and ZHe) and stratigraphic analysis. QTQt thermal models are combined with burial diagrams to retrieve the timing and magnitude of sedimentary burial, tectonic burial, and subsequent exhumation of the wedge's nappes from 34 to ∼12 Ma. Out-of-sequence thrusting and sediment recycling during wedge building are also identified. This elucidates the evolution of a typical wedge in a roll-back subduction zone.
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.
Eleni Stavropoulou and Lyesse Laloui
Solid Earth, 13, 1823–1841, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1823-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1823-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Shales are identified as suitable caprock formations for geolocigal CO2 storage thanks to their low permeability. Here, small-sized shale samples are studied under field-representative conditions with X-ray tomography. The geochemical impact of CO2 on calcite-rich zones is for the first time visualised, the role of pre-existing micro-fissures in the CO2 invasion trapping in the matererial is highlighted, and the initiation of micro-cracks when in contact with anhydrous CO2 is demonstrated.
Conor M. O'Sullivan, Conrad J. Childs, Muhammad M. Saqab, John J. Walsh, and Patrick M. Shannon
Solid Earth, 13, 1649–1671, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1649-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1649-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The Slyne Basin is a sedimentary basin located offshore north-western Ireland. It formed through a long and complex evolution involving distinct periods of extension. The basin is subdivided into smaller basins, separated by deep structures related to the ancient Caledonian mountain-building event. These deep structures influence the shape of the basin as it evolves in a relatively unique way, where early faults follow these deep structures, but later faults do not.
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.
Benjamin Guillaume, Guido M. Gianni, Jean-Jacques Kermarrec, and Khaled Bock
Solid Earth, 13, 1393–1414, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1393-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1393-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Under tectonic forces, the upper part of the crust can break along different types of faults, depending on the orientation of the applied stresses. Using scaled analogue models, we show that the relative magnitude of compressional and extensional forces as well as the presence of inherited structures resulting from previous stages of deformation control the location and type of faults. Our results gives insights into the tectonic evolution of areas showing complex patterns of deformation.
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.
Andrzej Głuszyński and Paweł Aleksandrowski
Solid Earth, 13, 1219–1242, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1219-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1219-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Old seismic data recently reprocessed with modern software allowed us to study at depth the Late Cretaceous tectonic structures in the Permo-Mesozoic rock sequences in the Sudetes. The structures formed in response to Iberia collision with continental Europe. The NE–SW compression undulated the crystalline basement top and produced folds, faults and joints in the sedimentary cover. Our results are of importance for regional geology and in prospecting for deep thermal waters.
R. Dietmar Müller, Nicolas Flament, John Cannon, Michael G. Tetley, Simon E. Williams, Xianzhi Cao, Ömer F. Bodur, Sabin Zahirovic, and Andrew Merdith
Solid Earth, 13, 1127–1159, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1127-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1127-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
We have built a community model for the evolution of the Earth's plate–mantle system. Created with open-source software and an open-access plate model, it covers the last billion years, including the formation, breakup, and dispersal of two supercontinents, as well as the creation and destruction of numerous ocean basins. The model allows us to
seeinto the Earth in 4D and helps us unravel the connections between surface tectonics and the
beating heartof the Earth, its convecting mantle.
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.
Luisa Röckel, Steffen Ahlers, Birgit Müller, Karsten Reiter, Oliver Heidbach, Andreas Henk, Tobias Hergert, and Frank Schilling
Solid Earth, 13, 1087–1105, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1087-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-1087-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Reactivation of tectonic faults can lead to earthquakes and jeopardize underground operations. The reactivation potential is linked to fault properties and the tectonic stress field. We create 3D geometries for major faults in Germany and use stress data from a 3D geomechanical–numerical model to calculate their reactivation potential and compare it to seismic events. The reactivation potential in general is highest for NNE–SSW- and NW–SE-striking faults and strongly depends on the fault dip.
Nadaya Cubas, Philippe Agard, and Roxane Tissandier
Solid Earth, 13, 779–792, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-779-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-779-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Earthquake extent prediction is limited by our poor understanding of slip deficit patterns. From a mechanical analysis applied along the Chilean margin, we show that earthquakes are bounded by extensive plate interface deformation. This deformation promotes stress build-up, leading to earthquake nucleation; earthquakes then propagate along smoothed fault planes and are stopped by heterogeneously distributed deformation. Slip deficit patterns reflect the spatial distribution of this deformation.
Piotr Krzywiec, Mateusz Kufrasa, Paweł Poprawa, Stanisław Mazur, Małgorzata Koperska, and Piotr Ślemp
Solid Earth, 13, 639–658, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-639-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-639-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Legacy 2-D seismic data with newly acquired 3-D seismic data were used to construct a new model of geological evolution of NW Poland over last 400 Myr. It illustrates how the destruction of the Caledonian orogen in the Late Devonian–early Carboniferous led to half-graben formation, how they were inverted in the late Carboniferous, how the study area evolved during the formation of the Permo-Mesozoic Polish Basin and how supra-evaporitic structures were inverted in the Late Cretaceous–Paleogene.
Paolo Boncio, Eugenio Auciello, Vincenzo Amato, Pietro Aucelli, Paola Petrosino, Anna C. Tangari, and Brian R. Jicha
Solid Earth, 13, 553–582, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-553-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-553-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
We studied the Gioia Sannitica normal fault (GF) within the southern Matese fault system (SMF) in southern Apennines (Italy). It is a fault with a long slip history that has experienced recent reactivation or acceleration. Present activity has resulted in late Quaternary fault scarps and Holocene surface faulting. The maximum slip rate is ~ 0.5 mm/yr. Activation of the 11.5 km GF or the entire 30 km SMF can produce up to M 6.2 or M 6.8 earthquakes, respectively.
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.
Malcolm Aranha, Alok Porwal, Manikandan Sundaralingam, Ignacio González-Álvarez, Amber Markan, and Karunakar Rao
Solid Earth, 13, 497–518, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-497-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-497-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
Rare earth elements (REEs) are considered critical mineral resources for future industrial growth due to their short supply and rising demand. This study applied an artificial-intelligence-based technique to target potential REE-deposit hosting areas in western Rajasthan, India. Uncertainties associated with the prospective targets were also estimated to aid decision-making. The presented workflow can be applied to similar regions elsewhere to locate potential zones of REE mineralisation.
Erica D. Erlanger, Maria Giuditta Fellin, and Sean D. Willett
Solid Earth, 13, 347–365, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-347-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-347-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
We present an erosion rate analysis on dated rock and sediment from the Northern Apennine Mountains, Italy, which provides new insights on the pattern of erosion rates through space and time. This analysis shows decreasing erosion through time on the Ligurian side but increasing erosion through time on the Adriatic side. We suggest that the pattern of erosion rates is consistent with the present asymmetric topography in the Northern Apennines, which has likely existed for several million years.
Daniele Cirillo, Cristina Totaro, Giusy Lavecchia, Barbara Orecchio, Rita de Nardis, Debora Presti, Federica Ferrarini, Simone Bello, and Francesco Brozzetti
Solid Earth, 13, 205–228, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-205-2022, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-13-205-2022, 2022
Short summary
Short summary
The Pollino region is a highly seismic area of Italy. Increasing the geological knowledge on areas like this contributes to reducing risk and saving lives. We reconstruct the 3D model of the faults which generated the 2010–2014 seismicity integrating geological and seismological data. Appropriate relationships based on the dimensions of the activated faults suggest that they did not fully discharge their seismic potential and could release further significant earthquakes in the near future.
Steven Whitmeyer, Lynn Fichter, Anita Marshall, and Hannah Liddle
Solid Earth, 12, 2803–2820, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-2803-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-2803-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Field trips in the Stratigraphy, Structure, Tectonics (SST) course transitioned to a virtual format in Fall 2020, due to the COVID pandemic. Virtual field experiences (VFEs) were developed in web Google Earth and were evaluated in comparison with on-location field trips via an online survey. Students recognized the value of VFEs for revisiting outcrops and noted improved accessibility for students with disabilities. Potential benefits of hybrid field experiences were also indicated.
Amir Kalifi, Philippe Hervé Leloup, Philippe Sorrel, Albert Galy, François Demory, Vincenzo Spina, Bastien Huet, Frédéric Quillévéré, Frédéric Ricciardi, Daniel Michoux, Kilian Lecacheur, Romain Grime, Bernard Pittet, and Jean-Loup Rubino
Solid Earth, 12, 2735–2771, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-2735-2021, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-12-2735-2021, 2021
Short summary
Short summary
Molasse deposits, deposited and deformed at the western Alpine front during the Miocene (23 to 5.6 Ma), record the chronology of that deformation. We combine the first precise chronostratigraphy (precision of ∼0.5 Ma) of the Miocene molasse, the reappraisal of the regional structure, and the analysis of growth deformation structures in order to document three tectonic phases and the precise chronology of thrust westward propagation during the second one involving the Belledonne basal thrust.
Cited articles
Altmann, J. B., Müller, B., Müller, T., Heidbach, O., Tingay, M., and Weißhardt, A.: Pore pressure stress coupling in 3D and consequences for reservoir stress states and fault reactivation, Geothermics, 52, 195–205, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geothermics.2014.01.004, 2014.
Barton, C. A. and Zoback, M. D.: Stress perturbations associated with active faults penetrated by boreholes: Possible evidence for near-complete stress drop and a new technique for stress magnitude measurement, J. Geophys. Res., 99, 9373–9390, https://doi.org/10.1029/93JB03359, 1994.
Böhringer, J., Jenni, J. P., Hürlimann, W., Resele, G., Grauer, R., and Norbert J.: Anhydritvorkommen als Wirtgestein für die Lagerung schwach- und mittelaktiver Abfälle dargestellt am Beispiel des Bois de la Glaive: Statusbericht, Nagra Technischer Bericht NTB 88-15, Nagra, Baden, Germany, 1990.
Brooker, E. W. and Ireland, H. O.: Earth Pressures at Rest Related to Stress History, Can. Geotech. J., 2, 1–15, https://doi.org/10.1139/t65-001, 1965.
Burlet, D. and Ouvry, J. F.: In situ stress inhomogeneity in deep sedimentary formations relative to material heterogeneity, Proceedings of Int. Symp. on Rock at Great Depth, Pau, Balkema, Rotterdam, 2, 1065–1071, 1989.
Deichmann, N., Ballarin Dolfin, D., and Kastrup, U.: Seismizität der Nord- und Zentralschweiz, Nagra Tech. Ber. NTB 00-05, p. 113, Nagra, Wettingen, Germany, 2000.
Dassault Systèmes: ABAQUS User Manual (version 6.11), SIMULIA, a division of Dassault Systèmes, Providence, Rhode Island, USA, 2011.
Diebold, P., Naef, H., and Ammann, M.: Zur Tektonik der zentralen Nordschweiz. Interpretation aufgrund regionaler Seismik, Oberflächengeologie und Tiefbohrungen, Geol. Ber. Landeshydrol. u. -geol., 14, 1991.
Diebold, P. and Noack, T.: Late Palaeozoic troughs and Tertiary structures in the eastern Folded Jura, in: Deep Structure of the Swiss Alps: Results of NRP20, edited by: Pfiffner, O. A., Lehner, P., Heitzmann, P., Mueller, S., and Steck, A., Basel, Birkhäuser Verlag, 59–63, 1997.
Evans, K. F., Engelder, T., and Plumb, R. A.: Appalachian stress study, 1. A detailed description of in-situ stress variations in Devonian shale of the Appalachian Plateau, J. Geophys. Res., 94, 7129–7154, 1989.
Fischer, K. and Henk, A.: A workflow for building and calibrating 3-D geomechanical models – a case study for a gas reservoir in the North German Basin, Solid Earth, 4, 347–355, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-4-347-2013, 2013.
Fuchs, K. and Müller, B.: World stress map of the Earth: a key to tectonic processes and technological applications, Naturwissenschaften, 88, 357–371, 2001.
Giger, S. and Marschall, P.: Geomechanical properties, rock models and in-situ stress conditions for Opalinus Clay in Northern Switzerland, Nagra Arbeitsber. NAB 14-01, 2014.
Griffith, W. A., Becker, J., Cione, K., Miller, T., Pan, E.: 3-D topographic stress perturbations and implications for ground control in underground coal mines, Int. J. Rock Mech. Min., 70, 59–68, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijrmms.2014.03.013, 2014.
Gunzburger, Y., Cornet, F. H.: Rheological characterization of a sedimentary formation from a stress profile inversion, Geophys. J. Int., 168, 402–418, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-246X.2006.03140.x, 2007.
Gunzburger, Y., and Magnenet, V.: Stress inversion and basement-cover stress transmission across weak layers in the Paris basin, France, Tectonophysics, 617, 44–57, 2014.
Heidbach, O. and Reinecker, J.: Analyse des rezenten Spannungsfeldes der Nordschweiz, Nagra Arb. Ber. NAB 12-05, p. 120, Nagra, Wettingen, 2013.
Heidbach, O., Reinecker, J., Tingay, M., Müller, B., Sperner, B., Fuchs, K., and Wenzel, F.: Plate boundary forces are not enough: second- and third-order stress patterns highlighted in the world stress map database, Tectonics, 26, TC6014, https://doi.org/10.1029/2007TC002133, 2007.
Heidbach, O., Tingay, M., Barth, A., Reinecker, J., Kurfeß, D., and Müller, B.: The World Stress Map database release 2008, available at: http://dc-app3-14.gfz-potsdam.de/pub/introduction/introduction_frame.html (last access: 5 May 2015), 2008.
Heidbach, O., Tingay, M., Barth, A., Reinecker, J., Kurfeß, D., and Müller, B.: Global crustal stress pattern based on the world stress map database release 2008, Tectonophysics, 482, 3–15, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2009.07.023, 2010.
Henk, A.: Perspectives of Geomechanical Reservoir Models - Why Stress is Important: European Magazine, 4, 1–5, 2008.
Hergert, T. and Heidbach, O.: Geomechanical model of the Marmara Sea region – II. 3-D contemporary background stress field, Geophys. J. Int., 185, 1090–1102, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-246X.2011.04992.x, 2011.
Jáky, J.: The coefficient of earth pressure at rest, J. Soc. Hungarian Arch. Eng., 78, 355–358, 1944.
Kempf, O. and Pfiffner, O. A.: Early Tertiary evolution of the North Alpine Foreland Basin of the Swiss Alps and adjoining areas, Basin Res., 16, 549–567, 2004.
Klee, G.: Geothermal borehole Schlattingen 1 – Hydraulic fracturing stress measurements, Nagra Project Report, NPB 12-08, Nagra, Wettingen, Germany, 2012.
Laubscher, H.: Some overall aspects of Jura dynamics, Am. J. Sci., 272, 293–304, 1972.
Laubscher, H.: The eastern Jura–Relations between thin-skinned and basement tec-tonics, local and regional, Geol. Rundschau, Stuttgart, 75, 535–553, 1986.
Madritsch, H., Schmid, S. M., and Fabbri, O.: Interactions between thin- and thick-skinned tectonics at the northwestern front of the Jura fold-and-thrust belt (eastern France), Tectonics, 27, TC5005, https://doi.org/10.1029/2008TC002282, 2008.
Malz, A.: Inversionsstrukturen und abgescherte Überschiebungssysteme, Strukurinventar und strukturelle Analyse einengender Deformation in Mitteleuropa am Beispiel der Thüringer Mulde und des Schweizer Faltenjura, PhD thesis, Geologisches Institut, Universität Jena, Germany, 2014.
Malz, A., Madritsch, H., Meier, B., Heuberger, S., and Kley, J.: An unusual triangle structure associated with thrust front developement in the thin-skinned Eastern Jura Mountains, Geophys. Res. Abstracts, 16, EGU2014-15153, 2014.
Matter, A., Peters, T., Bläsi, H. R., Meyer, J., Ischi, H., and Meyer, C.: Sondierbohrung Weiach Geologie: Textband, Nagra Technischer Bericht, NTB 86-01, Nagra, Baden, Germany, 1988.
Mayne, P. W. and Kulhawy, F. H.: Ko–OCR relationships in soil, J. Geotech. Eng.-ASCE, 108, 6, 851–872, 1982.
Mazurek, M., Hurford, A. J., and Leu, W.: Unravelling the multi-stage buriel history of the Swiss Molasse basin: integration of apatite fission track, vitrinite reflectance and biomarker isomerisation analysis, Basin Res., 18, 27–50, 2006.
Moeck, I., Kwiatek, G., and Zimmermann, G.: Slip tendency analysis, fault reactivation potential and induced seismicity in a deep geothermal reservoir, J. Struct. Geol., 31, 1174–1182, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2009.06.012, 2009.
Nagra: Sondierbohrung Benken: Hydrofrac Spannungsmessungen. Teil I: Auswertung der Feldmessungen, Nagra Int. Ber. NIB 99–36a, p. 100, Nagra, Wettingen, Germany, 1999.
Nagra: Sondierbohrung Benken Untersuchungsbericht, Nagra Tech. Ber. NTB 00-01, p. 273, Nagra, Wettingen, Germany, 2001.
Nagra: Vorschlag geologischer Standortgebiete für das SMA- und das HAA-Lager, Nagra Tech. Ber. NTB 08-04, p. 395, Nagra, Wettingen, Germany, 2008.
Nagra: SGT Etappe 2: Vorschlag weiter zu untersuchender geologischer Standortgebiete mit zugehörigen Standortarealen für die Oberflächenanlage. Geologische Grundlagen, Dossier II. Nagra Tech. Ber. NTB 14-02, 2014a.
Nagra: SGT Etappe 2: Vorschlag weiter zu untersuchender geologischer Standortgebiete mit zugehörigen Standortarealen für die Oberflächenanlage. Geologische Grundlagen, Dossier IV. Nagra Tech. Ber. NTB 14-02, 2014b.
Pan, E., Amadei, B., and Savage, W. Z.: Gravitational and tectonic stresses in anisotropic rock with irregular topography, Int. J. Rock Mech. Min., 32, 201–214, 1995.
Plumb, R. A.: Variations of the least horizontal stress magnitude in sedimentary rocks, in: Proc. 1st North Amer. Rock Mech. Symp., Austin, Balkema, Rotterdam, 71–78, 1994.
Plumb, R. A., Evans, K. F., and Engelder, T.: Geophysikal log responses and their correlation with bed-to-bed stress contrasts in Paleozoic rocks, Appalachian Plateau, NY, J. Geophys. Res., 96, 14509–14528, 1991.
Reinecker, J., Tingay, M., Müller, B., and Heidbach, O.: Present-day stress orientation in the Molasse Basin, Tectonophysics, 462, 1–4, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tecto.2009.1007.1021, 2010.
Reiter, K. and Heidbach, O.: 3-D geomechanical–numerical model of the contemporary crustal stress state in the Alberta Basin (Canada), Solid Earth, 5, 1123–1149, https://doi.org/10.5194/se-5-1123-2014, 2014.
Roche, V., Homberg, C., and Rocher, M.: Fault nucleation, restriction, and aspect ratio in layered sections: quantification of the strength and stiffness roles using numerical modeling, J. Geophys. Res., 118, 1–15, https://doi.org/10.1002/jgrb.50279, 2013.
Saucier, F., Humphreys, E., and Weldon, R.: Stress near geometrically complex strike-slip faults: application to the San Andreas Fault at Cajon Pass, southern California, J. Geophys. Res., 97, 5081–5094, https://doi.org/10.1029/91JB02644, 1992.
Savage, W. Z. and Morin, R. H.: Topographic stress perturbations in southern Davis Mountains, west Texas 1. Polarity reversal of principal stresses, J. Geophys. Res., 107, 2339, https://doi.org/10.1029/2001JB000484, 2002.
Schmid, S. M., Pfiffner, O. A., Froitzheim, N., Schönborn, G., and Kissling, E.: Geophysical-geological transect and tectonic evolution of the Swiss-Italian Alps, Tectonics, 15, 1036–1064, 1996.
Simpson, R. W.: Quantifying Anderson's fault types, J. Geophys. Res., 102, 17909–17919, 1997.
Sinclair, H. and Allen, P. A.: Vertical versus horizontal motions in the Alpine orogenic wedge: stratigraphic response in the Foreland Basin, Basin Res., 4, 215–232, 1992.
Sommaruga, A.: Geology of the central Jura and the Molasse Basin: new insight into an evaporite-based foreland fold and thrust belt, Mem. Soc. Sci. nat. Neuchatel, 12, 716 pp., 1997.
Sperner, B., Müller, B., Heidbach, O., Delvaux, D., Reinecker, J., and Fuchs, K.: Tectonic stress in the Earth's crust: advances in the world stress map project, in: New Insights in Structural Interpretation and Modelling, Volume 212, edited by: Nieuwland, D. A., Geological Society, London, 101–116, 2003.
Tingay, M., Müller, B., Reinecker, J., Heidbach, O., Wenzel, F., and Fleckenstein, P.: Understanding Tectonic Stress in the Oil Patch: The World Stress Map Project, The Leading Edge, 1276–1282, 2005.
Ustaszewski, K. and Schmid, S. M.: Latest Pliocene to recent thick-skinned tectonics at the Upper Rhine Graben – Jura Mountains junction, Swiss J. Geosci., 100, 293–312, 2007.
Valley, B. and Evans, K. F.: Estimation of the stress magnitudes in Basel enhanced geothermal system, in: Proceedings World Geothermal Congress, Melbourne, Australia, 19–25 April 2015, 2015.
Warpinski, N. R.: Determining the minimum in situ stress from hydraulic fracturing through perforations, Int. J. Rock Mech. Min., 26, 523–531, 1989.
Warpinski, N. R. and Teufel, L. W.: In-situ stress measurements at Rainier Mesa, Nevada Test Site – influence of topography and lithology on the stress state in tuff, Int. J. Rock Mech. Min., 28, 143–161, 1991.
Wileveau, Y., Cornet, F. H., Desroches, J., and Blumling, P.: Complete in situ stress determination in an argillite sedimentary formation, Phys. Chem. Earth, 32, 866–878, 2007.
Yale, D. P.: Fault and stress magnitude controls on variations in the orientation of in situ stress, Geol. Soc. Spec. Publ., 209, 55–64, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.2003.209.01.06, 2003.
Ziegler, P. and Dèzes, P.: Crustal evolution of Western and Central Europe, in: European Lithosphere Dynamics, Volume 32, edited by: Gee, D. G. and Stephenson, R. A., Geol. Soc. Mem., London, 32, 43–56, 2006.
Zoback, M.: Reservoir Geomechanics, Cambridge, Cambridge, UK, 449 pp., 2010.
Zoback, M. L.: First and second order patterns of stress in the lithosphere: the world stress map project, J. Geophys. Res., 97, 11703–11728, 1992.
Short summary
A numerical model integrating the structure and mechanical properties of a sedimentary sequence in the Alpine foreland is presented to show that topography, tectonic faults and, most of all, spatialy variable rock properties affect the state of stress at depth. The tectonic forces acting on the sequence are primarily taken up by the stiff rock units leaving the weaker units in a stress shadow.
A numerical model integrating the structure and mechanical properties of a sedimentary sequence...
