Inelastic Dilation Causes Coseismic Fault Depressurization
Published:Dec 30, 2025 00:20
•1 min read
•ArXiv
Analysis
This paper is significant because it highlights the importance of considering inelastic dilation, a phenomenon often overlooked in hydromechanical models, in understanding coseismic pore pressure changes near faults. The study's findings align with field observations and suggest that incorporating inelastic effects is crucial for accurate modeling of groundwater behavior during earthquakes. The research has implications for understanding fault mechanics and groundwater management.
Key Takeaways
- •Inelastic dilation, caused by coseismic fault damage, can significantly reduce pore pressure.
- •The model incorporating inelastic dilation aligns with field observations of water level drawdowns.
- •Elastic strain models underestimate the magnitude and misrepresent the sign of water level changes.
- •The research suggests that field hydrologic measurements near active faults could capture damage-related pore pressure signals.
Reference
“Inelastic dilation causes mostly notable depressurization within 1 to 2 km off the fault at shallow depths (< 3 km).”