Illuminating subduction zone rheological properties in the wake of a giant earthquake

Weiss J.R.; Qiu Q.; Barbot S.; Wright T.J.; Foster J.H.; Saunders A.; Brooks B.A.; Bevis M.; Kendrick E.; Ericksen T.L.; Avery J.; Smalley, R.; Jr.; Cimbaro S.R.; Lenzano L.E.; et. al.

Abstract

Deformation associated with plate convergence at subduction zones is accommodated by a complex system involving fault slip and viscoelastic flow. These processes have proven difficult to disentangle. The 2010 M-w 8.8 Maule earthquake occurred close to the Chilean coast within a dense network of continuously recording Global Positioning System stations, which provide a comprehensive history of surface strain. We use these data to assemble a detailed picture of a structurally controlled megathrust fault frictional patchwork and the three-dimensional rheological and time-dependent viscosity structure of the lower crust and upper mantle, all of which control the relative importance of afterslip and viscoelastic relaxation during postseismic deformation. These results enhance our understanding of subduction dynamics including the interplay of localized and distributed deformation during the subduction zone earthquake cycle.

Más información

Título según WOS: Illuminating subduction zone rheological properties in the wake of a giant earthquake
Título según SCOPUS: Illuminating subduction zone rheological properties in the wake of a giant earthquake
Título de la Revista: SCIENCE ADVANCES
Volumen: 5
Número: 12
Editorial: AMER ASSOC ADVANCEMENT SCIENCE
Fecha de publicación: 2019
Idioma: English
DOI:

10.1126/sciadv.aax6720

Notas: ISI, SCOPUS