Analog modeling of fault asperity kinematics using a modified squeeze-box design and wax media

AbstractFault movement is strongly influenced by the physical characteristics of the fault surfaces. Fault surfaces are generally nonplanar and have a certain amount of roughness to them, which manifests as fault asperities. In order for a fault to continue moving along its preexisting surface, the asperities must either move past each other, which involves moving a large volume of rock around these obstacles, or create new fractures that “decapitate” and pulverize these asperities, ultimately leading to a smoother fault surface. We explore a new way to investigate fault asperity kinematics using a squeeze-box analog deformation rig. The more typical and classic squeeze-box model uses sand and/or clay to demonstrate fault and fold deformations. We have designed and built a new analog modeling rig that uses a dual-wax analog material. One constituent is white spherical wax particles that have been embedded in a lower-melting-temperature black matrix wax. Deformation of the analog material is facilitated by...