ISSN: 1945-7545
CODEN: GTJODJ
Page Count: 12

A Study of Strike-Slip Faulting Using Small-Scale Models

Lazarte, CA
Graduate student researcher and assistant professor, University of California, Berkeley, CA

Bray, JD
Graduate student researcher and assistant professor, University of California, Berkeley, CA

Abstract

Results from tests on small-scale soft clay models subjected to strike-slip faulting in a 1-g environment are presented. Kinematic/boundary conditions and material ductility were dominant factors on model response. Material ductility significantly affected the deformation and breakage patterns in level ground and embankment models, with larger base offsets being required to produce surface offsets in ductile materials. In addition, the shear zone was broader with ductile materials. Horizontal and vertical distributions of shear deformation within the models are presented. The rate of rupture propagation appears to increase as the base fault ruptures up through the soil. The effect of model geometry and base fault orientation are also important in the model's response.

Keywords:
earthquakes, faults, clay, physical models, embankments

Paper ID: GTJ10335J
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ10335J
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