The inverse/right-lateral Yingxiu–Beichuan fault ruptured during the Wenchuan earthquake for ~270 km. We
investigated the northeastern segment of that fault by analysing 3 newly acquired and 3 older seismic lines
that cross the fault. We combine this analysis with that of the surface ruptures and of the regional geology in
order to discuss the geometry, the style and the amount of motion of the fault. We conclude that the Yingxiu–
Beichuan fault is very steep (~70°) at the surface and has still a dip N 45° at 6 km depth. The fault offsets all previous
structures and particularly the Tangwangzhai nappes fromwhich a vertical offset of 3 to 6 kmis evaluated.
The right-lateral component of motion along the Yingxiu–Beichuan fault appears to be larger at the surface than
at depth and increases only slightly towards the NE. We suggest that the Yingxiu–Beichuan fault is continuous at
depth between its northern and southern segments.

Tectonophysics, vol. 619, p. 159–170, 2014. ISSN: 0040-1951

lien pour récupérer le papier sur le site de Tectonophysics

retour à la Liste des publications

Retour à la page P.H. Leloup

Déformation de la lithosphère continentale. Exemple de l'Asie du SE au Tertiaire

Link to get the manuscript through Tectonophysics Web site

back to publications list

Back to P.H. Leloup page

How does the continental lithosphere deform ? Insigths from Tertiary deformation of SE Asia