Numerical simulation of selected geologic processes based on Discrete Element Method

This study presents numerical modeling of geologic processes based on Discrete Element Method (DEM), including modeling of pull-apart basin development based on Particle Flow Code (PFC) and simulation of deformation and earthquake potential of Ordos Block (China) under present tectonic stress regime based on Universal Distinct Element Code (UDEC). A scale-independent modeling approach based on PFC2D has been established to simulate the development of pull-apart basins. The micro-scale PFC models are used to investigate crack propagation and basin development in releasing sidestep systems with pure strike-slip, transtensional, and transpressional master faults, respectively. In each system, three typical models including 30° underlapping, 90° non-overlapping, and 150° overlapping releasing sidesteps are chosen. The modeling results are compared with pull-apart basins in nature. The geometric differences of pull-apart basins result from both the initial strike-slip fault geometries and its various evolution stages. Rhomboidal basins which have larger basin length than the amount of motion form in overlapping systems and do not progress through the spindle-shaped and lazy-Z-shaped stages such as the Dead Sea basin. Rhomboidal basins with cross-basin faults tend to form in underlapping systems. Finally, the origin of rhomboidal pull-apart basins, depocenters of pull-apart basins, cross-basin faults and their significances, models for pull-apart basin development, and minimum displacements and ages to form pull-apart basins are discussed. A two-dimensional UDEC model involving Ordos Block and adjacent areas is set up. Boundary conditions based on present tectonic regime are assumed. Block rotations, shear stress and displacement on faults, ratio of shear to normal force are simulated. Slip tendency which represents the assessment of the potential for causing slip on individual faults and earthquake-prone of the faults is predicted. Modeling results are compared with geologic evidences.

Level thesis:degree_level

thesis.doctoral

Grantor dc:publisher

TU Bergakademie Freiberg

Year

2018

Author dc:creator

• Liu, Yuan

Contributors dc:contributor

• Konietzky, Heinz
• Ustaszewski, Kamil
• Hu, Jianmin

• Pull-apart basin
• Discrete Element Method
• Pull-Apart-Becken
• Diskrete-Elemente-Methode