Advances in tectonic physical analog modeling under hypergravity

GUAN Tao; WU Lei; YANG Bo; JIA Dong; WU Xiaojun; YANG Shufeng; CHEN Hanlin

doi:10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2026019

Volume 32 Issue 3

Jun. 2026

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GUAN T，WU L，YANG B，et al.，2026. Advances in tectonic physical analog modeling under hypergravity[J]. Journal of Geomechanics，32（3）：721−740 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2026019

Citation:

GUAN T，WU L，YANG B，et al.，2026. Advances in tectonic physical analog modeling under hypergravity[J]. Journal of Geomechanics，32（3）：721−740 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2026019

Citation:

GUAN T，WU L，YANG B，et al.，2026. Advances in tectonic physical analog modeling under hypergravity[J]. Journal of Geomechanics，32（3）：721−740 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2026019

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Advances in tectonic physical analog modeling under hypergravity

doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2026019

GUAN Tao^{1, 2
,},
WU Lei^{1, 2
,
,},
YANG Bo^{1, 2
,},
JIA Dong^3
,,
WU Xiaojun^3
,,
YANG Shufeng^{1, 2
,},
CHEN Hanlin^{1, 2
,}

1.
School of Earth Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China
2.
Research Center for Structures in Oil and Gas Bearing Basins, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou 310058, Zhejiang, China
3.
School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, Jiangsu, China

Funds: This research was financially supported by the Excellent Research Group Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 52588202) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 42272233).

More Information

Received: 2026-02-04
Revised: 2026-05-16
Accepted: 2026-05-26

Available Online: 2026-05-28

Published: 2026-06-28

Abstract

Abstract

Objective Physical analog modeling is an effective laboratory method for reconstructing geological structure evolution, yet conventional normal-gravity experiments face limitations due to significant deviations in stress levels compared to natural prototypes. Hypergravity technology offers a novel pathway to address this issue and has emerged as a frontier approach for investigating deep and large-scale spatio-temporal scale Earth deformation. Methods This paper systematically reviews the research progress of hypergravity tectonic physical analog modeling, summarizes the characteristics and applications of experimental devices including small laboratory centrifuges and cantilever centrifuges used worldwide, analyzes the suitability of non-powered and powered driving systems, elaborates on the application principles of analog material systems for ductile, brittle, and complete crustal profiles, and introduces key techniques for surface deformation observation and internal structure detection. Conclusions Through the analysis of analog experiments simulating compressional structures, extensional structures, diapirs, and subduction, the unique advantages of hypergravity in amplifying density-driven effects, accelerating tectonic deformation, and improving simulation similarity are revealed, with specific patterns of its influence on structural styles and propagation processes clarified. During the research, the authors also developed a hypergravity physical analog modeling experimental chamber compatible with the Zhejiang University ZJU400 centrifuge and conducted related experimental studies. Significance This research provides a systematic reference for methodological innovation and theoretical development in hypergravity physical analog modeling, and holds positive significance for advancing structural geology toward quantification and interdisciplinary integration.
- tectonic physical analog modeling,
- hypergravity experiment,
- centrifuge,
- tectonic deformation,
- geological process

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