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Establishing genetic links between active shallow faulting and deep seismogenic sources is challenging, especially in areas where seismogenic faults lack clear and readily interpretable geological evidence at the surface. The architecture of the Pedeapenninic margin of the Northern Apennines (Italy) reflects a regional-scale and complex NE-verging blind thrust system, which is dissected by transpressive/transtensive faults resulting from active NE-SW orogenic compression. The local geological framework is defined by allochthonous ocean-derived units resting atop Pliocene-to-present successions exposed along the Northern Apennines margin and to the NE of it, while the innermost chain sector mostly contains Adria-related units. We present results from field structural-geological investigations to identify and characterize potential active faults along the margin. There, the Pliocene-to-present units are faulted and folded, indicating that tectonic activity is still on-going, thus contributing to the local seismic hazard. Top-to-the NE and SW normal faults are common in the area and deform the Pliocene-to-present succession together with NE-SW strike-slip and transpressional/transtensional faults. Based on field evidence, we define four potentially active thrust segments affecting Middle Pleistocene to Holocene deposits exposed along the margin. Calcite U-Th dating on samples from faults extend the most recent datable tectonic activity back to the Middle Pleistocene. Paleostress analysis from inversion of fault-slip data from the most recent identified striated fault planes constrains a NE-SW shortening direction parallel to the Apennines regional migration direction. A distinct but coaxial extensional stress regime, recorded by structures measured within Plio-Pleistocene formations, was also identified. Our results offer a sound starting point for future investigations aimed at improving our understanding of active and seismogenic faulting in the area, so as to create robust Probabilistic Seismic and Fault Displacement Hazard Assessment (PSHA and PFDHA) models that can implement refined seismic hazard maps benefitting from structural-geological deterministic inputs in addition to the classic seismological constraints. • Identification of four active or potentially active thrusts along the Pedeapenninic margin of the Northern Apennines. • Paleostress analysis reveals a spatio-temporal variability of stress regimes along the Northern Apennines front. • A complex interplay of structural features accommodates deformation at the front of the active belt. • A geological approach to support guidelines for seismic hazard assessment in areas with scarce outcrops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To obtain a better understanding of melt–rock interactions in the upper mantle, microstructural and petrological analyses were conducted on deformed mantle peridotites from the Horoman peridotite complex, Hokkaido, Japan. The Horoman peridotite complex is lithologically heterogeneous and contains various kinds of ultramafic and mafic rocks. We studied an outcrop of 3 × 70 m in size that contains layered spinel harzburgite, plagioclase lherzolite, and mafic rocks. The results indicate that reactive melts migrated preferentially along the foliation in the already deformed peridotite, and that these melt-rich zones became especially prone to further deformation. This inference is supported by (1) the parallelism of the boundaries of rock layers and foliation in the deformed peridotite, and the shape and crystallographic preferred orientations (SPOs and CPOs) of olivine in the peridotites; (2) the diffusive trends of magnesium and modal compositions of pargasite grains near the boundaries between peridotite and mafic layers; (3) variations in the NiO content of olivine crystals; (4) variations in olivine CPOs with orthorhombic (010)[100] slip system patterns and weak fiber-[010] patterns; and (5) the strong pargasite SPOs, the cuspate shapes of the pargasites, and the absence of intercrystallite deformation. The results, combined with previously reported P–T conditions for the Horoman peridotite complex, indicate that the deformed peridotites and mafic rocks with a layered structure represent temperatures of 1050–1150 °C and pressures of 0.7–1.5 GPa. Our results suggest that a decrease in pressure led to the transition from a melt-free to a melt-bearing system with a consequent change in the deformation mechanism, from dislocation creep in the melt-free system to diffusion creep in the melt-bearing system, with strain localization in the fine-grained melt-rich layers. The change in deformation mechanism is likely to have occurred in the uppermost mantle beneath a mid-ocean ridge, where strong rheological contrasts are controlled by spatial variations in the melt fraction. • Reactive melts migrated preferentially along the foliation in the already deformed peridotite. • Layered mantle peridotites and mafic rocks were deformed under partially molten conditions beneath a mid-ocean ridge. • Deformation mechanisms changed at sites of melt–rock interaction, and the strain was localized in melt-rich layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied fault core geometry and mechanical properties of exhumed basement rocks at two localities (Storskora and Lislaskora) in Sotra Island, western Norway. We combine outcrop studies with in-situ measurements of the rock stiffness (Young's modulus) to characterize the faults. Faults were investigated both along and across strike using multiple 1D scanlines on the outcrop. Our results show that both fault core thickness and stiffness values vary along the faults. Thicker fault cores (up to 0.8 m and 1.9 m in Storskora and Lislaskora loaclities, respectively) show higher values of stiffness (Young's modulus) up to 70 GPa. The stiffness values of the fault core are generally higher than those measured on the damage zone of the faults in this area. The presence of epidote and compacted fault gouge in the fault core can cause the increase in estimated fault core stiffness. In contrast, fractures are dominant in the damage zones causing local reductions in the stiffness. A map of recent seismic events in this area shows potential seismic activities along some of the major exposed faults in the Sotra Island (e.g. Rustefjorden Fault). Based on the evidence from outcrop, inferred displacements, and interpretation of an available reflection seismic section, we found that the exposed faults could be secondary and part of the damage zone of the Øygarden Fault Complex in the east margin of the rift system in the North Sea. The results of this study could be utilized to predict the architecture and changes in rock stiffness of basement-involved faults in the subsurface. • Fault core thickness changes along the fault strike due to fault bending, lenses, and linkage. • Thicker fault cores in basement rocks are stiffer due to compacted fault gouge and epidote. • Overlapping damage zone show lower values of Young's moduli due to fracturing. • The exposed faults may have been active and part of the rift margin (Øygarden Fault Complex), extending offshore Norway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like many crustal-scale fault zones, the Median Tectonic Line (MTL) fault zone in Japan preserves fault rocks that formed across a broad range of physical conditions. We examined the architecture of the MTL at a large new outcrop in order to understand fault behaviours under different crustal levels. The MTL here strikes almost E–W, dips to the north, and juxtaposes the Sanbagawa metamorphic rocks to the south against the Izumi Group sediments to the north. The fault core consists mainly of Sanbagawa-derived fault gouges. The fault zone can be divided into several structural units, including two slip zones (upper and lower slip zones), where the lower slip zone is more conspicuous. Crosscutting relationships among structures and kinematics indicate that the fault zone records four stages of deformation. Microstructures and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses indicate that the four stages of deformation occurred under different temperature conditions. The oldest deformation (stage 1) was widely distributed, and had a top-to-the-east (dextral) sense of slip at deep levels of the seismogenic zone. Deformation with the same sense of slip, then became localised in the lower slip zone (stage 2). Subsequently, the slip direction in the lower slip zone changed to top-to-the-west (sinistral-normal) (stage 3). The final stage of deformation (stage 4) involved top-to-the-north normal faulting along the two slip zones within the shallow crust (near the surface). The widely distributed stage 1 damage zone characterises the deeper part of the seismogenic zone, while the sets of localised principal slip zones and branching faults of stage 4 characterise shallow depths. The fault zone architecture described in this paper leads us to suggest that fault zones display different behaviours at different crustal levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aperture has a controlling impact on porosity and permeability and is a source of uncertainty in modeling of naturally fractured reservoirs. This uncertainty results from difficulties in accurately quantifying aperture in the subsurface and from a limited fundamental understanding of the mechanical and diagenetic processes that control aperture. In the absence of cement bridges and high pore pressure, fractures in the subsurface are generally considered to be closed. However, experimental work, outcrop analyses and subsurface data show that some fractures remain open, and that aperture varies even along a single fracture. However, most fracture flow models consider constant apertures for fractures. We create a stress-dependent heterogeneous aperture by combining Finite Element modeling of discrete fracture networks with an empirical aperture model. Using a modeling approach that considers fractures explicitly, we quantify equivalent permeability, i.e. combined matrix and stress-dependent fracture flow. Fracture networks extracted from a large outcropping pavement form the basis of these models. The results show that the angle between fracture strike and σ 1 has a controlling impact on aperture and permeability, where hydraulic opening is maximum for an angle of 15°. At this angle, the fracture experiences a minor amount of shear displacement that allows the fracture to remain open even when fluid pressure is lower than the local normal stress. Averaging the heterogeneous aperture to scale up permeability probably results in an underestimation of flow, indicating the need to incorporate full aperture distributions rather than simplified aperture models in reservoir-scale flow models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the crustal structure of the eastern Tennessee seismic zone (ETSZ) by means of potential field inversion through the located Euler deconvolution method. Inversion of magnetic field data shows that the top of the magnetic basement ranges between 6 and 12 km depth in the Valley and Ridge physiographic province while it is shallower (< 2 km depth) and locally outcropping in the Blue Ridge and Cumberland Plateau provinces. The estimated depth to the top of the magnetic basement is in general agreement with existing sedimentary cover maps of the broad study area. The inversion of gravity data is much more ambiguous, pointing to a generally deeper source, than magnetic data inversion. The findings support the interpretation of ETSZ seismicity as originating in basement structures not related to Appalachian orogeny and likely dating to Grenville age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mangar depression, located in the eastern part of the Tarim basin, had deposited extremely-thick lower Paleozoic sediments, which yields great scientific value and hydrocarbon resource potential. Due to the lack of enough outcrop and core studies, many issues, e.g., early Paleozoic geographical evolution, basin nature and tectonic affinity, are still poorly understood. In this study, we selected circum-Mangar areas (i.e., the South Quruqtagh, Tabei and Tazhong areas), and carried out comprehensive detrital provenance analysis including detrital modal analysis, heavy mineral and trace element analysis, and detrital zircon U–Pb dating on the Middle–Upper Ordovician and Silurian sandstones. The results show that Upper Ordovician–Lower Silurian detrital provenances of the South Quruqtagh and Tabei areas were primarily derived from the intracontinental uplifts in Tarim. Meanwhile, Upper Silurian detrital provenances of the above two areas were mainly derived from the mix of intracontinental uplifts and continental-margin arcs. Dramatic Late Silurian provenance-change suggests the evident tectonic transition of the northern Tarim margin, which is the opening of the South Tianshan back-arc oceanic basin. Combining the previous studies, an integral redefinition model for the Mangar depression has been made. The evolution process of the Mangar depression could be divided into four stages: graben stage (late Neoproterozoic), transitional stage (Cambrian to Middle Ordovician), downwarp stage (Late Ordovician to Early Silurian) and extinction stage (Late Silurian). Hence, the Mangar depression evolved as an aulacogen. Significantly, the evolutional scenario of the Mangar aulacogen was consistent with that of the North Altyn Tagh and the North Qilian, suggesting that the Mangar aulacogen was involved mainly in the Proto-Tethys tectonic realm south to the Tarim block. However, the Late Silurian tectonic activity in the northern Tarim margin did produce massive detrital sources for northern part of the Mangar aulacogen and aggravated the extinction process of the Mangar aulacogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The northern Tunisia is occupied by the Tellian domain constituent the eastern end of the Maghrebides, Alpine fold–thrust belt. Study area includes partially the Tellian domain (Mogodos belt) and its foreland (Bizerte region). Most of this region outcrops consist of Numidian thrust sheet flysch attributed to the lower Oligocene–Burdigalian. In the study area, the major fault systems are still subject of discussion. The Numidian nappe structure, the distribution of basalt and Triassic outcrops within and at the front of this Tellian domain deserve more explanation. In this work we intend to update the structural scheme and the tectonic evolution of the northern Tunisia, taking into account salt tectonics and magmatism. The updated tectonic evolution will be integrated in the geodynamic framework of the Central Mediterranean. For this purpose, we have analyzed morphologic, seismic and structural data. The compilation of the results has allowed the identification of new regional NE-trending faults dipping towards the NW: the Bled el Aouana–Bizerte, the Sejnane–Ras Enjla and the Oued el Harka faults. They correspond to the reactivation of deep-seated normal faults splaying on the Triassic evaporites. This fault system constitutes the main component of the northern Tunisia structural scheme and has influenced its tectonic evolution marked by the main following stages. The Tellian thrust-sheets were immobilized at the uppermost Langhian. During the major Tortonian NW-trending compressive phase, these faults were reactivated with reverse kinematics and controlled the distribution of the post-nappes Neogene continental deposits. At the early Pleistocene, a compressive NNW-trending event has reactivated again these faults with sinistral-reverse movements and deformed the post-nappes Neogene series. Late Quaternary to Actual, the tectonic regime continues to be compressive with a NNW-trending maximum horizontal stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeromagnetic and gravity data have proven to be among the most effective methods for mapping deeply buried basin/basement interfaces. However, the data interpretation generally suffers from ambiguities, due to the non-uniqueness of the gravity and magnetic signatures. Here, we tie the gravity and magnetic signatures with a petrophysical characterization of the lithologies outcropping around the French Paris Basin. Our methodology investigates the lithology and structure of its hidden Variscan substratum at the junction between the Armorican Massif and Massif Central . Our approach is based on the combination of potential field data, magnetic susceptibilities measured in the field, density values of sample rocks and information documented in boreholes, in order to propose a new interpretative geological map of the buried substratum of the Paris Basin. The petrophysical description is combined with geophysical patterns of the substratum, mapped through statistical unsupervised classification of suitably selected magnetic and gravity maps. The first step of interpretation consists in extending the outcropping major structures below the Meso-Cenozoic sedimentary cover of the Paris Basin. The litho-structural units, in between these major structures, are then interpreted separately. The second step consists in assigning lithologies within each unit, with respect to its magnetization and density (as derived from the petrophysical compilation), and mapping its extension under cover, integrating punctual borehole information. Overall, with a special emphasis on relating geophysical signatures and petrophysical characteristics of litho-structural units, this methodology permits a precise structural and lithological cartography of a segment of the buried Variscan substratum. In the southwestern part of the Paris Basin, this approach reveals: i) the limited eastward extension of Central Brittany, ii) the eastward extension of the major Cholet fault, iii) the emphasis on N150E-N160E striking fault and their N30E conjugates, controlling the opening of Permo-Carboniferous basins, and iv) the eastward extension of the Eo-Variscan suture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the results of a systematic study carried out on the fracture systems exposed in the Sierra de La Candelaria anticline, in the central Andean retrowedge of northwestern Argentina. The aim was to elaborate a kinematic model of the anticline and to assess the dimensional and spatial properties of the fracture network characterizing the Cretaceous sandstone reservoir of the geothermal system of Rosario de La Frontera . Special regard was devoted to explore how tectonics may affect fluid circulation at depth and control fluids' natural upwelling at surface. With this aim we performed a Discrete Fracture Network model in order to evaluate the potential of the reservoir of the studied geothermal system. The results show that the Sierra de La Candelaria regional anticline developed according to a kinematic model of transpressional inversion compatible with the latest Andean regional WNW–ESE shortening, acting on a pre-orogenic N–S normal fault. A push-up geometry developed during positive inversion controlling the development of two minor anticlines: Termas and Balboa , separated by further NNW–SSE oblique-slip fault in the northern sector of the regional anticline. Brittle deformation recorded at the outcrop scale is robustly consistent with the extensional and transpressional events recognized at regional scale. In terms of fluid circulation, the NNW–SSE and NE–SW fault planes, associated to the late stage of the positive inversion, are considered the main structures controlling the migration paths of hot fluids from the reservoir to the surface. The results of the fracture modeling performed show that fractures related to the same deformation stage, are characterized by the highest values of secondary permeability. Moreover, the DFN models performed in the reservoir volume indicates that fracture network enhances its permeability: its secondary permeability is of about 49 mD and its fractured portion represents the 0.03% of the total volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Submarine mass-transport deposits (MTDs) frequently include blocks of strata with variable deformation styles. In this paper, a 3D seismic volume from SE Brazil is compared with outcrop information from SE Crete to investigate multi-scale deformation patterns within mass-transport blocks. Block morphology in the two study areas relates to the orientation of internal faults and fractures, with wide chasms separating block fragments that opened along these planar features. Two families of sub-perpendicular faults associated with intra-block extension are observed at multiple scales. On seismic data, we show new evidence of intra-block horizontal shearing and thrusting. At outcrop, downslope verging folds, load casts and injectites are observed along poorly consolidated sandy intervals that are less than 1 m thick. Documented cross-cutting geometries suggest a syn-kinematic origin for these structures. By integrating the observations made at different scales we suggest the development of 3D meshes in mass-transport blocks, which are characterised by the intersection of faults and fractures with bed-parallel shear planes. These meshes greatly increase the permeability of individual blocks. The results in this work have implications for the analysis of fluid flow paths on continental margins, and show that mass-transport blocks can comprise important fluid bypass points when buried in low permeability strata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The link between the macroscopic silicate fabric and the magnetite-controlled AMS (anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility) fabric in ferromagnetic rocks was investigated through a comprehensive comparison between different fabric measurement techniques. Sample lithologies include tonalites and granodiorites from the Lago della Vacca Complex, Adamello Batholith, Italy. The datasets used to assess the link between subfabrics and the coherence between methods include: 1) macroscopic silicate fabric measured directly in the field; 2) macroscopic silicate fabric derived from image analysis (IA) of outcrop pictures and sample pictures; 3) shape-preferred orientations (SPO) of mafic silicates, 4) SPO of magnetite, and 5) calculated distribution of magnetite grains from computer-assisted high-resolution X-ray tomography (X-ray CT) images; 6) fabrics derived from the AMS. Macroscopic mineral fabrics measured in the field agree with the IA results and with the SPO of mafic silicates obtained from the X-ray CT imaging. The X-ray CT results show that the SPO of the magnetite grains are consistent with the AMS data whereas the spatial distribution of the magnetite grains is less compatible with the AMS fabric. This implies that the AMS signal is mainly controlled by the shape of the magnetic carrier mineral rather than by the spatial arrangement of the magnetite grains. An exception is the presence of magnetite clusters. Furthermore, the SPO of mafic silicates and the SPO of the magnetite grains are consistent with the AMS data. Another finding of this study is that the magnetic susceptibility correlates linearly with the amount of magnetite in the samples. The coherent results obtained from a variety of methods reinforce the application of both AMS measurements and IA as robust tools to analyse fabrics in granitic intrusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbonate rocks are characterized by a high heterogeneity of their properties at the outcrop scale that results from complex interactions between sedimentary, diagenetic and fracturing processes. Here we show acoustic P-wave velocity measurements conducted step-by-step on three decameter scale outcrop surfaces in Cretaceous carbonate rocks with contrasted heterogeneities: two shallow water highly-fractured (Cassis) and low-fractured (Calissanne) carbonates, and one basin highly-compacted (Grignantes). P-wave measurements were compared to outcrop geology, and with plug porosity, P-wave velocity laboratory measurements and a thin-section study. Results show a strong scale dependence of P-wave velocities which always are lower at the decimeter scale than at the plug scale. Vp in situ -versus-Vp plug large discrepancies (> 2000 m/s) highlight the signature of large heterogeneities (open fractures, stylolithes), and lower discrepancies (< 2000 m/s) highlight the signature of small matrix heterogeneities (porosity type, granulometry, and fracture filling). Variogram analyses were conducted to precise the contrasted outcrop scale Vp signatures. The oblique anisotropy Vp in situ distribution follows the dip of the ripple foresets which are controlling grain sorting and porosity in Calissanne outcrop, the near-isotropic Vp are explained by an early intense fracturing and cementation in Cassis outcrop and the strong horizontal anisotropy with a hole effect behavior on variograms highlights the late re-opening of multiple intervals of compaction bands in Grignantes. These results illustrate that the early diagenesis coupled to fracture or stylolithe reactivation/opening are two key processes that explain the outcrop scale P-wave velocity distribution anisotropy in carbonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Active deformation in southern Italy is accommodated by a distributed number of faults with low–moderate slip rates. Outcropping extensional faults and mostly blind transcurrent faults are mapped within a western (or axial) and an eastern domain, respectively. We use a combination of continuous (2001.00–2011.84) and episodic (1995.68–2010.79) GNSS observations to firstly estimate the geodetic deformation rate on 32 faults. Geodetic results were successively compared with geological displacement estimates. In agreement with seismological and geological information, a net spatial segregation emerges between the extensional axial belt, and the eastern domain where strike–slip faults are geodetically active. Although uncertainties are at times large, average displacement rates show broadly consistent patterns within both domains. A longitudinal gradient in extension rate is observed for the axial fault array, with two sectors of higher magnitude (~0.8–1.7mm/yr for individual faults). This result is consistent with geological observations and supports the notion that extension occurs in discrete patches. Faults of the eastern domain have lower (few 0.1 to ~1.2mm/yr) strike–slip rates and an eastward-decreasing extensional component, but significant geodetic displacement is detected in areas lacking clear evidence of activity. Few faults with 1–2mm/yr extension rate are locally found in the eastern domain, but, based on their limited length and on inconsistency with seismology and geology, they are considered as due to deep-seated gravitational spreading. For crustal faults, although geodetic slip and moment rates are larger than geological rates, the broad trend of long- to short-term rates is similar, indicating the feasibility of geodetic analysis to contribute estimating fault slip rate and testing tectonic models in the region. Whereas the western domain extension is thought to be controlled by potential energy related to the Tyrrhenian Moho uplift beneath the Apennines, strike–slip in the east is related to shear on inherited faults within the Adriatic crust. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fault zones record a series of faulting events that have occurred under different physical conditions during their evolution. Therefore, it is essential to understand the internal structures of fault zones in order to better understand the mechanical behavior of faults. The internal structure of the Wenchuan earthquake fault zone that prevailed at the Bajiaomiao outcrop and in the WFSD-1drilling cores, located along the southern segment of the Yingxiu–Beichuan surface rupture in the Hongkou area, is described in details in this paper. Based on field surveys, X-ray diffraction analysis, microstructure and analysis of the drilling cores, an ~240m-wide fault zone was confirmed as the Yingxiu–Beichuan fault zone (YBF) at the Bajiaomiao outcrop, corresponding to the ~100m fault zone in the WFSD-1 drilling cores. Fault rocks, including fault breccia, fault gouge and cataclasite were identified in both the outcrop and drilling cores, while pseudotachylyte was only present at the outcrop. Two different types of gouge veins, formed by thermal pressurization and fluidization respectively, are observed in this area. The YBF possesses the characteristics of a multiple core model, and consists of 5 different fault rock units. From top to bottom, these are cataclasite zone, black fault gouge–breccia zone, gray fault breccia zone, dark-gray fault breccia zone and black fault gouge–breccia zone. Outcrop investigation and drilling core research show that the slip zone of the Wenchuan earthquake does not completely follow the ancient fault slip zone. The Wenchuan earthquake fault is a high angle thrust fault which crosses the YBF obliquely. The multi-layered fault rocks displayed in the research area might indicate that the YBF comes from the long-term fault activity and evolution over the last ~15–10Ma. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Primary rock magnetism analysis was performed on samples from the Jiulong outcrop across the Anxian–Guanxian fault of the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake rupture zone. The protolith of hanging wall of this outcrop is the upper Triassic sediments, which formed the fault breccia and gouge by repeated large earthquakes. The footwall of this outcrop contains Jurassic grayish-green and dark-purple sandstones. The average magnetic susceptibility value of the gouge is slightly less than that of potential protolith. Based on the primary rock magnetism, the main magnetic carriers are Fe-sulfides for the gouge, magnetite for the fault breccia, and magnetite and hematite for the Jurassic grayish-green and dark-purple sandstones. Possibly during or after repeated large earthquakes (just like the 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan Earthquake), it transformed the magnetic mineral from magnetite to Fe-sulfides by low thermal decomposition processes along the Anxian–Guanxian earthquake fault, which induces the slightly less average magnetic susceptibility values of the gouge than that of potential protolith. If this magnetic mineral changed only because of repeated large earthquake process, the heating by low velocity seismic slip friction and seismic fluid could possibly have been less than 300°C. If this magnetic mineral of the Anxian–Guanxian earthquake fault is only induced after repeated large earthquakes, the earth surface process acts an important role for the magnetic mineral change. More other further studies should be done to verify the primary magnetic mineral phase change and discriminate the time of this magnetic mineral variation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper we present a new basement (defined here as Paleozoic, Precambrian and Mesozoic igneous rocks) map of the Lower Tagus Valley area. This map is a contribution to the understanding of the structural evolution of the top of the basement in the Lower Tagus Valley area during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic Eras. The map was produced using aeromagnetic, well, seismic reflection and geological outcrop data. It shows unprecedented details of the geometry of the basement rock's surface with higher resolution and covers a larger area than the previous basement map of the study area. In spite of an estimated average error of 200m in depth and an horizontal resolution of 4km, our map not only reproduces with accuracy several well known basement structures but it also emphasizes previously unknown features. Major basement faults were inferred from large depth variations at the top of the basement, magnetic 2D Euler deconvolution and horizontal gradient analysis and are compatible with surface geological structures, well data and hydrogeological information. Implications to the geodynamic evolution of the SW European Variscides and consequences to Meso-Cenozoic tectonics are discussed. The correlation of the basement structures with instrumental seismicity is carried out and their neotectonic activity is discussed on the basis of existing geological outcrop data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The 600m-thick Gole Larghe Fault Zone (GLFZ) is hosted in jointed crystalline basement and exposed across glacier-polished outcrops in the Italian Alps. Ancient seismicity is attested by the widespread occurrence of cataclasites associated with pseudotachylytes (solidified frictional melts) formed at 9–11km depth and ambient temperatures of 250–300°C. Previous work focused on the southern part of the fault zone; here we quantitatively document fault zone structure across the full width of the GLFZ and surrounding tonalite host rocks by using a combination of structural line transects and image analysis of samples collected across fault strike. These new datasets indicate that the GLFZ has a broadly symmetric across-strike damage structure and contains distinct southern, central and northern zones distinguished by large variations in fracture density, distribution of pseudotachylytes, volume of fault rock materials, and microfracture sealing characteristics. The c. 100m wide central zone is bound by two thick (~2m) and laterally continuous (>1km) protocataclastic to ultracataclastic horizons. Within and immediately surrounding the central zone, fracture density is relatively high due to cataclastic fault–fracture networks that reworked earlier-formed pseudotachylytes. The fault–fracture networks were associated with pervasive microcracking and fluid–rock interaction, resulting in the development of a c. 200m thick alteration zone delimited by lobate fluid infiltration fronts. In the c. 250m thick southern and northern zones, fracture densities are much lower and pseudotachylytes systematically overprint cataclastic faults that exploited pre-existing magmatic cooling joints. Analysis of the structure of the GLFZ suggests that it shares certain characteristics with the seismogenic source responsible for the 2002 Au Sable Forks intraplate earthquake sequence in the northeastern USA, including seismicity distributed across a fault zone 500–1000m thick and large (>100MPa) static stress drops associated with frictional melting. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Aegean volcanic arc has been investigated along its offshore areas and several submarine volcanic outcrops have been discovered in the last 25years of research. The basic data including swath bathymetric maps, air-gun profiles, underwater photos and samples analysis have been presented along the four main volcanic groups of the arc. The description concerns: (i) Paphsanias submarine volcano in the Methana group, (ii) three volcanic domes to the east of Antimilos Volcano and hydrothermal activity in southeast Milos in the Milos group, (iii) three volcanic domes east of Christiana and a chain of about twenty volcanic domes and craters in the Kolumbo zone northeast of Santorini in the Santorini group and (iv) several volcanic domes and a volcanic caldera together with very deep slopes of several volcanic islands in the Nisyros group. The tectonic structure of the volcanic centers is described and related to the geometry of the arc and the neotectonic graben structures that usually host them. The NE–SW direction is dominant in the Santorini and Nisyros volcanic groups, located at the eastern part of the arc, where strike–slip is also present, whereas NW–SE direction dominates in Milos and Methana at the western part, where co-existence of E–W disrupting normal faults is observed. The volcanic relief reaches 1100–1200m in most cases. This is produced from the outcrops of the volcanic centers emerging usually at 400–600m depth and ending either below sea level or at high altitudes of 600–700m on the islands. Hydrothermal activity at relatively high temperatures observed in Kolumbo is remarkable whereas low temperature phenomena have been detected in the Santorini caldera around Kameni islands and in the area southeast of Milos. In Methana and Nisyros, hydrothermal activity seems to be limited in the coastal areas without other offshore manifestations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The geology of Dronning Maud Land (East Antarctica) is so far deduced from isolated outcrops along the coast and from a major coast parallel escarpment surmounting the thick ice sheet. Large parts of Dronning Maud Land are, however, hidden underneath thick ice. In this study we attempt to connect geological information with aeromagnetic data in order to unveil the sub-glacial geology of this part of East Antarctica. During four austral summer campaigns (2001–2005) in Dronning Maud Land, new aeromagnetic data were gathered across an area of 1.2million square kilometers of which a portion of 65% was previously unexplored. In total 100,000 line kilometers were flown over Dronning Maud Land between 14°W/20° E and 70°S/78.5°S. A striking result was the discovery of a pronounced magnetic anomaly, named here Forster Magnetic Anomaly, east of the Jutulstraumen. It starts at approximately 72°S/007°E and strikes in southwesterly direction as far south as 75°S/1°W. The Forster Magnetic Anomaly likely forms a major tectonic block boundary and/or a suture zone within the East African–Antarctic Orogen (EAAO). The shape and distribution of other magnetic anomalies are discussed in the context of the Proterozoic to Mesozoic geological history of this part of Antarctica. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Eastern Sierras Pampeanas are basement cored outcrops uplifted in the Andean foreland where the easternmost segment of the Pampean flat slab segment starts dipping more steeply into the deeper mantle. These ranges of central Argentina known as the Sierras de Córdoba have an enriched-quartz composition and are bounded by a series of reverse faults. Different models have been suggested to represent the style of the thick-skinned deformation in this area. However the overall structure linking the exposed faults and terrane boundaries with their probable continuation at depth is unknown. In this paper we present images of the crustal structure beneath the Sierras de Córdoba using the common conversion point stacking method of high frequency local receiver functions recorded by the ESP broadband seismic array. The work consists of two transects located around 31°S and 32°S across the Sierras de Córdoba. The results show a consistent sharp Moho signal associated with a high contrast in seismic velocities in good agreement with the granitic character of the crust lying above the mafic upper mantle. The Moho morphology varies exhibiting thicknesses of 38km in the west to 35km in the east with a vertical shifting under the Sierra Chica. We relate this variable character to the presence of the boundary between the Pampia terrane and the Rio de La Plata craton. Our results for the intra-crustal structure indicate the presence of three discontinuities in the northern transect and at least two discontinuities in the southern transect. These discontinuities appear vertically displaced beneath the surface traces of the major range bounding faults providing evidence for the continuation to mid-crustal depths of the exposed reverse faults. Thus, the reverse faults seem to have displaced several horizontal intra-crustal interfaces. Finally in the lower crust we found a region which seems to be aseismic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on the study of the Madison Limestone at Sheep Mountain and Rattlesnake Mountain, a unique outcrop dataset including (1) facies and diagenetic analyses, (2) vertical persistence and cement stratigraphy of vein sets and (3) fluid inclusions thermometry are used to demonstrate the impact of folding and fracturing on paleo-hydrogeology. Quantification of the vertical persistence of fractures shows that Sheep Mountain and Rattlesnake Mountain differ by the vertical persistence of the pre-folding Laramide vein sets, which are strictly bed-confined in Sheep Mountain but cut across bedding at Rattlesnake Mountain, whereas the syn-folding veins are through-going in both. The emplacement chronology and the various sources of the fluids responsible for the paragenetic sequence are based on isotope chemistry and fluid inclusions analysis of the matrix and vein cements. At Sheep Mountain and Rattlesnake Mountain, the cements related to the burial are characterized by isotopic signatures of marine formation waters that were diluted during the karstification of the Madison Platform at the end of Mississippian. Meteoric fluids, presumably migrating during the Cenomanian from Wind River Range and Teton Range, recharge zones located in the south-west of the Bighorn Basin, were remobilized in the early bed-confined and through-going syn-folding veins of the Sheep Mountain Anticline. The former vein set drained only local fluids whose isotopic signature relates to an increase of temperature of the meteoric fluids during their migration, whereas the latter set allowed quick drainage of basinal fluids. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Algarve is located a few hundred kilometres north of the crossing of the E–W Eurasia–Africa plate boundary and is characterised by a moderate seismicity, with some important historical and instrumental earthquakes causing loss of lives and significant material damages. The area is affected not only by plate boundary generated earthquakes but also by local events capable of generating moderate to large earthquakes. The assessment of onshore local sources and its connections with the plate border is therefore of vital importance for an evaluation of the regional seismic hazard. This paper discusses the application of geophysical data to study a large fault zone which is the offshore prolonging of the Carcavai fault zone (CF), an onshore outcropping structure more than 20km long which is seen to deform sediments of Plio-Quaternary age. Offshore and onshore aeromagnetic data, offshore gravimetric and seismic reflection data shows the existence of a long (over 200km) WSW–ENE trending fault zone affecting the Palaeozoic basement with a normal geometry which is probably segmented by NNW–SSE to N–S faults. Seismic data shows that this fault zone has been reactivated as a left-lateral strike-slip fault and inverted in the Cenozoic with the upthrust of the northwestern block, in agreement with the onshore CF characteristics. Recent work carried out onshore and offshore near the coastline that shows deformation of Plio-Quaternary sediments suggests that this is an active fault. Some of the faults segments have instrumental seismicity associated. Though faults very rarely rupture along its entire length, several fault segments have a length of about 30km and may produce an earthquake of magnitude about7. The proximity of the onshore segment to the city of Faro and of the offshore segments to the main population centres of the Algarve makes it a serious threat to the Algarve. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mélanges crop out within unmetamorphosed basal Great Valley Group (GVG) forearc basin strata and between GVG and the underlying Coast Range Ophiolite (CRO) in the San Francisco Bay region of coastal California. These mélanges include high-pressure (HP) metamorphic blocks of the Franciscan subduction complex that structurally underlies the unmetamorphosed CRO as well as blocks of GVG and CRO. The matrix consists of foliated shale and serpentinite, locally interleaved at centimeter scale. The mélanges strike and dip parallel to bounding GVG sandstones and conglomerates. The matrix locally consists of sedimentary breccia and conglomerate made up of clasts of serpentinite and shale. GVG sandstones within and bounding the mélanges have detrital serpentinite clasts. The field relationships indicate a sedimentary origin of the mélanges as olistostromal deposits within latest Jurassic to earliest Cretaceous basal GVG. The mélanges correlate to units along the eastern margin of the northern Coast Ranges, about 250km to the north with restoration of post-subduction dextral faulting, and differ from the latter in the higher proportion of shale, stronger matrix foliation, and common occurrence of HP blocks. Similar units may have mistakenly been assigned to the Franciscan owing to the foliated nature of the matrix and occurrence of HP blocks. This and the broad distribution of localities indicate that these deposits are more widespread than previously believed. Exhumation rates of coarse-grained HP mélange blocks may have been 2 to 10mm/yr or higher based on the ages of similar blocks in the Coast Ranges, burial depth of the blocks, and depositional age of the enclosing strata. Exhumation and deposition of Franciscan blocks in these GVG mélanges predates preserved accretion of similar materials in the adjacent Franciscan by at least 30m.y., suggesting subduction erosion of previously accreted material, or exhumation of the blocks in forearc serpentinite–shale diapirs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Serpentinites can enhance the exhumation of HP-rocks by lowering the bulk density of subducted material and by establishing a low-viscosity channel between the lower and upper plates; this mechanism has been proposed for a 100m-scale tectonic mélange outcropping inside the Voltri Massif (Ligurian–Piemontese Units, Western Alps, Italy). We want to test if the mechanism of the subduction channel is feasible at a larger scale, i.e. for the km-scale Voltri Massif, that consists of metaophiolites recording blueschist to eclogite facies peak conditions. We identified a study area in the eastern part of the massif made of highly sheared serpentinite which hosts lenses of metagabbros; a strong strain partitioning between host-rock and the lenses and between core and rims of the lenses occurs. We coupled P–T pseudosections, garnet–omphacite geothermometry and petrographic observations and we obtained clockwise P–T paths with almost isothermal decompression trajectory. The analyzed blueschist lens recrystallized at peak conditions of 10–15kbar and 450–500°C; the eclogitic ones reached peak metamorphic conditions ranging from about 21kbar and 450–490°C to 22–28kbar and 460–500°C; the studied bodies thus recorded different metamorphic peaks acquired at slightly different T conditions. Comparing our results with literature data, a large scatter in the metamorphic peak conditions is displayed, with peak temperatures up to 650°C and pressures ranging from 18 to 25kbar. (1) The presence of poorly deformed lenses (from m- to km-scale) of heterogeneous lithologies inside highly sheared serpentinite and metasediments country-rocks, (2) the strong strain partitioning and (3) the heterogeneous metamorphic peak conditions of the different lenses allow us to suggest that the Voltri Massif matches the requirements of a tectonic mélange; in particular the eastern sector may thus represent a “fossil” serpentinite-subduction channel, comparable to the small-scale one already described in the western sector of the Voltri Massif. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Outcrop mapping and structural analyses in a 100m thick fault damage zone elucidate geometry and kinematics of the Main Boundary Thrust in the study area. The north-dipping fault damage zone is sandwiched between the Proterozoic Amritpur granite in the hangingwall and the Neogene Siwalik sediments in the footwall. The Amritpur granite is overlain by the volcanic-sedimentary sequence along a top-to-the-south thrust. The footwall sediments are deformed into gentle upright and steeply-plunging folds. By contrast, the hangingwall granite is generally massive. The km-scale folds in the Sub Himalayan sediments are geometrically discordant to the folds in the Lesser Himalayan volcanic-sedimentary sequence. The damage zone contains both the Sub Himalayan sediments and the Lesser Himalayan amphibolite. It consists of an imbricate structure, tectonic wedges and pressure solution bands. The imbricate structure is made up of seven fault-bounded lithotectonic domains that record the imprints of coaxial refolding and subsequent modification of the folds into sheath-like structures. The geometry and kinematics of mesoscopic structures and the results of paleostress analysis reveal a sinistral wrench accompanied N-S to NNE-SSW directed subhorizontal shortening in the damage zone. The aforesaid evidences also help distinguish between pure contractional, pure wrench, contraction-dominated and wrench-dominated deformation in the different domains and the tectonic wedges. The sinistral transpression in the damage zone is ascribed to the occurrence of an oblique/lateral ramp along the Main Boundary Thrust in the study area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The January 2010 Efpalio earthquake sequence provides some key elements to enhance our view on the western Corinth Gulf tectonics. The sequence lasted almost six months, and included two Mw>5 strong events, both exhibiting normal faulting along ~E–W trending planes. This paper attempts to construct a unified seismotectonic model of the sequence jointly interpreting earthquake locations, moment-tensors and slip inversions in terms of the possible activated fault planes. Previous studies have connected the prevailing microseismic activity to a major low-angle, north-dipping structure under the Corinth Gulf and the Efpalio sequence favors such a general trend. Moreover, it clearly shows the significance of the shallow activity, so far less recognized, and possibly connected to the relatively steep faults outcropping on the northern coast. The first 18 January 2010 Mw>5 event had almost no on-fault aftershocks and most likely it occurred on a 55° south-dipping nodal plane. The early off-fault aftershocks formed two clusters roughly E–W trending, both of which are connected with normal faulting. Cross-sections revealed that the northernmost cluster is connected with a north-dipping structure, where the second 22 January 2010 Mw>5 event occurred. In addition, the very shallow parts of the faults (<4km) were mainly aseismic, probably due to their creeping behavior. Interestingly, both clusters, at their western and eastern ends, are bounded by NE-SW trending strike-slip faults, a pattern previously observed in normal-faulting structures in Greece. This observation further invokes the role of transfer faults in the western termination of Corinth Gulf, which provide the link with regional structures, such as the Trichonis and Rion-Patras fault systems. Most of all the 2010 Efpalio sequence enhanced the complex mechanical interactions within the Corinth Gulf fault network, with many earthquake generating cluster centers, an observation which has strong implications for the seismic hazard of this densely populated region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A remarkable seismic swarm area exists amid the Wakayama Plain on the western coast of the Kii Peninsula, in southwestern Japan, close to the Median Tectonic Line (MTL). The hypocenters of these swarm earthquakes are very shallow with a median of 6km. This is exceptionally shallow for seismic activity in plain areas where the seismogenic layer is usually deep compared to that in mountainous regions (). Also, the b-value below 8km in the eastern part of this swarm region is anomalously high. In addition to these seismic features, GEONET data and leveling survey data obtained by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan indicate that land around the swarm region are expanded and upheaved. Areas of the dilatation and upheaval almost overlap and their centers correspond to the site where the high b-value anomaly is observed. These facts strongly suggest that there are hot materials beneath the source region. In the Kii Peninsula acid volcanic rocks outcrop widely, and the Wakayama swarm area is located on the southern side of the MTL in the metamorphic belt below which the relatively young hot Philippine Sea plate is subducting and dehydration from a surpentinized forearc mantle is expected to occur. Based on the seismic and geodetic observations and the tectonic background of the area in which the swarm region is situated, we propose a hypothesis that a diorite or a serpentine diapir with plentiful hot fluids might be intruding beneath the source area. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper includes the results of the application of novel methodologies for the statistical analysis of tensile fracture attributes (spacing, density, and aperture). The statistical methods have been applied to a fractured Lower Cretaceous carbonate succession cropping out in the Sorrento Peninsula (Naples area, Italy), representing a geological analogue of buried reservoirs of southern Apennines major oil fields. As fracture networks (observable from outcrop to the crystal scale) can significantly affect the hydraulic behavior of a fractured reservoir, the definition of appropriate models of fracture spacing and aperture probability distribution at various scales represents an important goal of structural analysis. In order to achieve such an objective, sampling has been carried out at different scales, by means of traditional scan lines at outcrop, as well as micro-scan lines carried out both by a digital micro-camera (50×) and by the optical microscope (200×). Fracture spacing and density analysis are mainly aimed at establishing the characteristics of joint spatial distribution over a range of scales. Aperture analysis is aimed at verifying that the aperture cumulative frequency is described by a power law and, in the latter instance, to provide an effective method for a more precise determination of the exponent of the power law. Finally, new expressions are provided, in closed form, in order to calculate the confidence interval of the power-law exponent. The proposed criteria provide handy and effective methods for a significantly improved statistical analysis of fracture attributes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Fractures can play an important role in the fluid storage–migration properties of fault damage zones. In this present contribution, we document the role exerted by fractures on fluid flow in carbonate damage zones of hydrocarbon-bearing, km-long, oblique-slip normal faults with 10''s of m-throw. The carbonate fault damage zones were analysed by mean of scan line surveys conducted in both tar-free and tar-rich outcrops. In this way, the relationships among the individual fracture characteristics (length, spacing, aperture, orientation, connectivity and distance from slip surfaces pertaining to small faults of the fault damage zones) and hydrocarbons have been established. Data obtained by scan line surveys were also used to compute the amount of fracture porosity, the degree of fracture connectivity and, based upon simple assumptions, the orientation of the local σ hmax at times of faulting. Additionally, scan line surveys were also carried out along outcrops exposing unfaulted carbonate host rocks. The results of our computation are consistent with a carbonate host rock made up of a quite isotropic fracture array comprised of isolated and coupled fractures, in which individual fracture sets have negative exponential spacing distributions. In terms of fluid flow, the fracture array of the carbonate host rock enhances the fluid storage. Conversely, the fracture array of the fault damage zones is characterized by a pronounced anisotropy due to interconnected fractures, which enhance the fluid migration. Fractures in the fault damage zones include those inherited from background deformation and others related to the faulting processes. The latter fracture sets are characterized by power law spacing distributions. In conclusion, counter-intuitively, both fracture length and fracture spacing do not have any correlation with hydrocarbons in the fault damage zones. On the contrary, fracture anisotropy, fracture spread and fracture orientation are positively correlated with hydrocarbons. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The analysis of fault–slip data is a widely used tool in structural geology. This method consists of three major steps: (a) data acquisition by measurements in outcrops, (b) data separation into homogeneous subsets and calculation of the principal stress or strain axes with one of several available methods, and (c) data interpretation in a regional tectonic context, which includes the assignment of ages and the derivation of regional patterns. Each one of these three steps may introduce artefacts and misinterpretations. The major problem during step (a) is sampling bias due to unfavourable outcrop geometry or due to neglecting faults with subtle slip–sense indicators. Step (b) contains numerous possibilities to influence the calculation results, e.g. by arbitrary separation of data into subsets, choice of the analysis method, and uncritical use of software. Age assignment in step (c) can in most cases be made only indirectly, e.g. by the assumption that measured outcrop-scale faults have the same age as parallel map-scale faults or by the inference that subsets from different sites with parallel-oriented principal axes are syngenetic. Neither assumption is necessarily valid. With this paper we want to sharpen researchers'' awareness of the problems related to fault–slip analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Compared to other mafic and ultramafic rocks from the CCSD main borehole as well as from the outcrops, rocks from the 540–600 m section is extraordinary in terms of its geophysical as well as geochemical properties. It consists of >70% hematite–ilmenite garnet pyroxenite (HI-GPX) and <30% intercalated rutile garnet pyroxenite (R-GPX). Whole-rock geochemical data show that HI-GPXs have: (1) relatively high V with an average of 606 ppm, but lower Nb and Ta; (2) highest TFeO, Fe2O3/FeO ratio, and highly variable but strong positive Eu anomalies with Eu/Eu⁎ up to 2.9; (3) anomalously high V/Sc ratios ranging from 8.39 to 43.23, average 15.03; and (4) high amounts of hematite–ilmenite solid solutions with a very fine intergrowth structure down to nanometer scale. V/Sc ratios in the CCSD garnet pyroxenites are correlated negatively with MgO, but positively with Fe2O3/FeO ratios. Both suites of pyroxenites have similar rare earth elements and high field strength elements geochemistry. These features demonstrate that these pyroxenites were formed from metamorphism of high-Fe and/or -Ti gabbroic cumulates. This can account not only for low high field strength elements (HFSE) and rare earth elements (REE) but also low Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf ratios in these rocks. Seemingly negative correlation between Nb/Ta and Zr/Hf in the CCSD metabasites, not significantly affected by UHP metamorphism, is also consistent with the silicate differentiation trend in a basaltic magma chamber. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Dabie–Sulu orogenic belt of east-central China has long been a type location for the study of geodynamic processes associated with ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) tectonics. Much of our understanding of the world''s most enigmatic processes in continental deep-subduction zones has been deduced from various records in this belt. By taking advantage of having depth profiles from core samples of the Chinese Continental Scientific Drilling (CCSD) project in the Sulu orogen, a series of combined studies were carried out for UHP metamorphic rocks from the main hole (MH) at continuous depths of 100 to 5000 m. The results provide new insights into the chemical geodynamics of continental subduction-zone metamorphism, especially on the issues that are not able to be resolved from the surface outcrops. Available results from our geochemical studies of CCSD-MH core samples can be outlined as follows. (1) An O isotope profile of 100 to 5000 m is established for the UHP metamorphic minerals, with finding of 18O depletion as deep as 3300 m. Along with areal 18O depletion of over 30,000 km2 along the Dabie–Sulu orogenic belt, three-dimensional 18O depletion of over 100,000 km3 occurs along the northern margin of the South China Block. (2) Changes in mineral O isotope, H isotope and water content occur in eclogite-gneiss transitions, concordant with petrographic changes. The contact between different lithologies is thus the most favorable place for fluid action; fluid for retrogression of the eclogites away from the eclogite-gneiss boundary was derived from the decompression exsolution. For the eclogites adjacent to gneiss, in contrast, the retrograde metamorphism was principally caused by aqueous fluid from the gneiss that is relatively rich in water. Inspection of the relationship between the distance, petrography and δ 18O values of adjacent samples shows O isotope heterogeneities between the different and same lithologies on scales of 20 to 50 cm, corresponding to the maximum scales of fluid mobility during the continental collision. (3) Studies of major and trace elements in the two continuous core segments indicate high mobility of LILE and LREE but immobility of HFSE and HREE. Some eclogites have andesitic compositions with high SiO2, alkalis, LREE and LILE but low CaO, MgO and FeO contents. These features likely result from chemical exchange with gneisses, possibly due to the metasomatism of felsic melt produced by partial melting of the associated gneisses during the exhumation. On the other hand, some eclogites appear to have geochemical affinity to refractory rocks formed by melt extraction as evidence by strong LREE and LILE depletion and the absence of hydrous minerals. These results provide evidence for melt-induced element mobility in the UHP metamorphic rocks, and thus the possible presence of supercritical fluid during exhumation. In particular, large variations in the abundance of such elements as SiO2, LREE and LILE occur at the contact between eclogite and gneiss. This indicates their mobility between different slab components, although it only occurs on small scales and is thus limited in local open-systems. (4) Despite the widespread retrogression, retrograde fluid was internally buffered in stable isotope compositions, and the retrograde fluid was of deuteric origin and thus was derived from the decompression exsolution of structural hydroxyl and molecular water in nominally anhydrous minerals. (5) A combined study of petrography and geochronology reveals the episode of HP eclogite-facies recrystallization at 216±3 Ma, with timescale of 1.9 to 9.3 Myr or less. Collectively, the Dabie–Sulu UHP terrenes underwent the protracted exhumation (2–3 mm/yr) in the HP-UHP regime. (6) Zircon U–Pb ages and Hf isotopes indicate that mid-Neoproterozoic protoliths of bimodal UHP metaigneous rocks formed during supercontinental rifting along preexisting arc-continent collision orogen, corresponding to dual bimodal magmatism in response to the attempted breakup of the supercontinent Rodinia at about 780 Ma. The first type of bimodal magmatism was formed by reworking of juvenile Late Mesoproterozoic crust, whereas the second type of bimodal magmatism was principally generated by rifting anatexis of ancient Middle Paleoproterozoic crust. In conclusion, the geochemical studies of CCSD-MH core samples have placed important constraints on the nature and scale of fluid action and element mobility during the continental subduction and UHP metamorphism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Retrograde metamorphism played the dominant role in changing the low-field rock magnetic properties and density of 198 specimens of variably retrograded eclogites from the main borehole of the Chinese Continental Scientific Drilling Project (CCSD) and from surface outcrops in the Donghai area in the southern part of the Sulu UHP belt, China. Bulk magnetic susceptibility (κ) of unretrogressed UHP eclogite is controlled by whole-rock chemical composition and ranges from 397 to 2312 μSI with principal magnetic susceptibility carrying minerals paramagnetic garnet, omphacite, rutile and phengite. Partially retrograded eclogites show large variations in magnetic susceptibility between 804 and 24,277 μSI, with high mean magnetic susceptibility values of 4372±4149 μSI caused by appreciable amounts of Fe-Ti oxide minerals such as magnetite, ilmenite and/or titanohematite produced by retrograde metamorphic reactions. Completely retrograded eclogites have lower susceptibilities of 1094±600 μSI and amphibolite facies mineral assemblages lacking high magnetic susceptibility minerals. Jelínek''s corrected anisotropy (P j ) of eclogites ranges from 1.001 to 1.540, and shows a positive correlation with low-field magnetic susceptibility (κ). Arithmetic mean bulk density (ρ) shows a steady decrease from 3.54±0.11 g/cm3 (fresh eclogite) to 2.98±0.06 g/cm3 (completely retrograded eclogite). Retrograde metamorphic changes in mineral composition during exhumation appear to be the major factor causing variations in low field magnetic susceptibility and anisotropy. Retrograde processes must be taken into account when interpreting magnetic surveys and geophysical well logs in UHP metamorphic terranes, and petrophysical properties such as density and low-field magnetic susceptibility could provide a means for semi-quantifying the degree of retrogression of eclogite during exhumation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The E–W trending Atlas System of Maghreb consists of weakly shortened, intra-continental fold belts associated with plateau areas (“Mesetas”), extending between the south-westernmost branch of the Mediterranean Alpine Belt (Rif-Tell) and the Sahara Platform. Although the Atlas system has been erected contemporaneously from Morocco to Algeria and Tunisia during the Middle Eocene to Recent, it displays a conspicuous longitudinal asymmetry, with i) Paleozoic outcrops restricted to its western part; ii) highest elevation occurring in the west, both in the Atlas System and its foreland (Anti-Atlas); iii) low elevation corridors (e.g. Hodna) and depressed foreland (Tunisian Chotts and Sahel area) in the east. We analyse the origin of these striking contrasts in relation with i) the Variscan heritage; ii) crustal vertical movements during the Mesozoic; iii) crustal shortening during the Cenozoic and finally, iv) the occurrence of a Miocene–Quaternary hot mantle anomaly in the west. The Maghreb lithosphere was affected by the Variscan orogeny, and thus thickened only in its western part. During the Late Permian–Triassic, a paleo-high formed in the west between the Central Atlantic and Alpine Tethys rift systems, giving birth to the emergent/poorly subsident West Moroccan Arch. During the late Middle Jurassic–Early Cretaceous, Morocco and western Algeria were dominantly emergent whereas rifting lasted on in eastern Algeria and Tunisia. We ascribe the uplift of the western regions to thermal doming, consistent with the Late Jurassic and Barremian gabbroic magmatism observed there. After the widespread transgression of the high stand Cenomanian–Turonian seas, the inversion of the Atlas System began during the Senonian as a consequence of the Africa–Eurasia convergence. Erosion affected three ENE-trending uplifted areas of NW Africa, which we consider as lithospheric anticlines related to the incipient Africa–Europe convergence. In contrast, in eastern Algeria and Tunisia a NW-trending rift system developed contemporaneously (Sirt rifting), normal to the general trend of the Atlas System. The general inversion and orogenesis of the Atlas System occurred during two distinct episodes, Middle–Late Eocene–Oligocene and Late Miocene–Pliocene, respectively, whereas during the intervening period, the Africa–Europe convergence was mainly accommodated in the Rif-Tell system. Inversion tectonics and crustal thickening may account for the moderate uplift of the eastern Atlas System, not for the high elevation of the western mountain ranges (Middle Atlas, High Atlas, Anti-Atlas). In line with previous authors, we ascribe part of the recent uplift of the latter regions to the occurrence of a NE-trending, high-temperature mantle anomaly, here labelled the Moroccan Hot Line (MHL), which is also marked by a strip of late Miocene–Quaternary alkaline magmatism and significant seismicity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Albanian fold-and-thrust belt and the Peri-Adriatic Depression are well documented by means of seismic reflection profiles, GPS reference points, potential data, wells and outcrops. The continuous Oligocene to Plio-Quaternary sedimentary records help to constrain both the burial history of Mesozoic carbonate reservoirs, the timing of their deformation, and the coupled fluid flow and diagenetic scenarios. Since the mid-90s, the Albanian foothills were used as a natural laboratory to develop a new integrated methodology and work flow for the study of sub-thrust reservoir evolution, and to validate on real case studies the use of basin modelling tools as well as the application of new analytical methods for the study petroleum systems in tectonically complex areas. The integration of the interactions between petrographic and microtectonic studies, kinematic, thermal and fluid flow basin modelling, is described in detail. The fracturing of the reservoir intervals has a pre-folding origin in the Albanides and relates to the regional flexuring in the foreland. The first recorded cement has a meteoric origin, implying downward migration and the development of an earlier forebulge in the Ionian Basin. This fluid, which precipitates at a maximum depth of 1.5 km, is highly enriched in strontium, attesting for important fluid–rock interaction with the Triassic evaporites, located in diapirs. From this stage, the horizontal tectonic compression increases and the majority of the fluid migrated under high pressure, characterised by brecciated and crack-seal vein. The tectonic burial increased due to the overthrusting, that is pointed out by the increase of the precipitation temperature of the cements. Afterwards, up- or downward migration of SO4 2−, Ba2+ and Mg2+-rich fluids, which migrated probably along the décollement level, allows a precipitation in thermal disequilibrium. This period corresponds to the onset of the thrusting in the Ionian Zone. The last stage characterised the uplift of the Berati belt, developing a selective karstification due likely to the circulation of meteoric fluid. The main results of the fluid flow modelling show that the Upper Cretaceous–Paleocene carbonate reservoirs in the Ionian zone have been charged from the Tortonian onward, and that meteoric fluid migration should have intensely biodegraded the hydrocarbon in place. Concerning the migration paths, it has been demonstrated that the thrusts act principally as flow barriers in Albania, mainly due the occurrence of evaporites (non-permeable), except in the foreland, where they do not occur. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We describe a novel workflow to reconstruct paleostresses in the subsurface where the traditional outcrop-based method that uses fault slip measurements is not possible. We use 3D seismic data and structural restoration to determine fault surfaces and slip vectors. These data are then used as input for paleostress-reconstruction algorithms. The study area of ca. 750 km2 is situated in the Groningen Block, the Netherlands. Excellent quality 3D seismic data were used to interpret 11 horizons and approximately 80 faults between the Tertiary and the Top Rotliegend. Indicators of fault slip direction are fault undulations, sedimentary structures offset by faults and shapes of horizon cut-outs. These indicators were used as a basis of 3D restoration of the interpreted horizons. A stepwise restoration approach was chosen that removed younger deformation to obtain slip vectors for older deformation events. In a following work step, Numeric Dynamic Analysis (NDA) was used to calculate paleostress tensors for the Middle and Lower Tertiary, Upper Cretaceous and Upper Rotliegend sequences. The results presented in this paper are consistent with existing paleostress interpretations for NW Europe; however, in contrast to previous studies they are derived from a subsurface volume where paleostress information was lacking until now. Issues that need further study include the effect of the size of the study area on the assumptions of a homogenous stress field, and an analysis of the ambiguity of the interpretation of fault slip indicators on 3D seismic data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: As part of the Karoo large igneous province (LIP), the ∼700 km-long and ∼182 Ma-old Lebombo monocline outcrops inland of a younger Mozambique Lowland cover that separates it from the Indian Ocean. Detailed mapping of a particularly well exposed Olifant River traverse across this monocline correlates basaltic and rhyodacitic lava units within the Lebombo Group to at least three hosted generations of intrusions within the monocline-parallel Northern Lebombo dyke swarm, implying that a much denser feeder dyke swarm is covered by younger flows. Measured attitudes and thicknesses of up to 197 lavas and 791 dykes statistically quantify a structural cross section, from which a properly weighted lava log of nearly 5 km basalts inter-bedded with an overlying >3.5 km of rhyodacites is constructed. The geological section is compatible with a slightly deeper (sub-lava) section through the innermost ∼30 km''s of a relatively narrow East Greenland margin, to which the Lebombo monocline can be rigorously compared. In both cases, field relationships are consistent with early tectonic extension being overwhelmed by dyke dilation within margin-parallel swarm segments that may have been injected laterally from central magma chambers. Thus, it is argued that the Lebombo monocline is part of a successfully rifted margin that, furthermore, belongs to a distinct class of highly volcanic and relatively narrow margins, which only form proximal to classical triple rift LIP centers, where an elevated magma flux sustains a magmatic mode of extension. For the Karoo LIP, this conforms with (1) a tight Gondwana reconstruction of Africa with Antarctica, (2) successful breakup during intense ∼182 Ma emplacement of the Lebombo Group, (3) triple rift formation, together with a short-lived (∼181–178 Ma) Okavango dyke swarm, and (4) anomalously thick igneous crust formation during continued ∼2.5 cm/yr separation into a loose ∼155 Ma plate configuration of Africa and Antarctica. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]