Cyclic ductile and brittle deformation related to coseismic thrust fault propagation: Structural record at the base of a basement nappe (Preveli, Crete)

• Published in: Tectonics (Washington, D.C.) D.C.), 2013-09, Vol.32 (5), p.1272-1293
• Main Authors: Nüchter, Jens-Alexander, Wassmann, Sara, Stöckhert, Bernhard
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Basements & cellars; Basins; Deformation; Fault lines; fault propagation; process zone; Propagation; pseudotachylite; Sedimentary rocks; Seismic activity; stress cycle; thrust
• ISSN: 0278-7407; 1944-9194
• DOI: 10.1002/tect.20079

The structural record at the base of a basement nappe (Preveli nappe, Crete, Greece) thrust upon sedimentary rocks is investigated, aimed on understanding mechanisms which result in decoupling of the thrust sheet from its original substratum. We identify several superimposed deformation stages, each with characteristic structural style and indications of episodic deformation at initially high differential stress. The final stage involves formation of a matrix supported breccia transected by pseudotachylytes, comprising the lowermost 30 m of the nappe. Brecciation and pseudotachylyte formation occurred in a single event, and structures were not modified afterward. Complete induration of breccia and composition of phengite crystallized during devitrification of pseudotachylytes place the sequence of events into the middle crust. We propose a model relating episodic deformation and cyclic stress history to propagation of a thrust fault in a limited number of seismic events. Terminal brecciation and frictional fusion record passage of the fault front beneath the site of observation and decoupling of the thrust sheet. Absence of discernible further deformation is consistent with negligible basal friction during transport as a nappe. Brecciation and pseudotachylyte formation mark the switch from a history of repeated coseismic loading and postseismic stress relaxation in the plastosphere, driven by seismic events on the approaching thrust fault, to passive transport with deformation localized in a weak thrust plane. For a sequence of superimposed ductile to brittle structures, our model provides an alternative to progressive cooling and exhumation concomitant with deformation over millions of years. Key Points Structural imprint related to thrust fault propagation Cyclic brittle and ductile deformation