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Variability in interseismic strain accumulation rate and style along the Altyn Tagh Fault
Lin Shen1,2, Andrew Hooper3, John R Elliott3
1COMET, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom. lshen@ldeo.columbia.edu.
Nature Communications
|August 11, 2024
Summary
Strain localization along the Altyn Tagh Fault (ATF) varies significantly, unlike other major strike-slip faults. This variability, influenced by geology and heat flow, impacts seismic hazard assessment.
Area of Science:
- Tectonics
- Geophysics
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Major strike-slip faults typically form narrow shear zones at rheological boundaries between distinct rock strengths.
- Understanding strain localization is crucial for seismic hazard assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the strain distribution and slip rate variations along the 1600 km-long Altyn Tagh Fault (ATF).
- To determine the factors controlling shear zone width and their implications for fault behavior and seismic hazard.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) to derive the velocity field across the entire Altyn Tagh Fault.
- Analyzed strain distribution and slip rates along the fault.
Main Results:
- Strain localization along the ATF is highly variable, with some sections showing concentrated strain and others distributed over broad shear zones (>100 km).
- Slip rates along the ATF vary, decreasing from west to central portions and increasing in the east (ranging from 7.2 ± 1.4 mm/yr to 11.6 ± 1.6 mm/yr).
- Variable shear zone width is linked to geological variations and heat flow, with sub-parallel faults influencing the deformation field.
Conclusions:
- The Altyn Tagh Fault exhibits complex strain localization patterns, deviating from typical narrow shear zone models.
- Geological variability and heat flow significantly influence the width of shear zones along major strike-slip faults.
- Accurate characterization of broad-region strain rates is essential for robust seismic hazard assessments, highlighting the role of sub-parallel fault systems.
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