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Tectonic System & Structural Geology
Tectonic System & Structural Geology
Crustal Stress & Tectonic Stress Field
Ore Field Structure & Mineralization
Geo-hazards & Engineering Geology
Quaternary Geology & Environment
Active Tectonics & Earthquake
Fundamental Geology & Regional Geology
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In-situ stress characteristics in the project area of a large hydropower station on the Northern margin of the Eastern Himalayan Syntaxis
bin wang, ZhiHong DONG, yuankun liu, ping fu, xiaoyu han, kai ai, ChunHua ZHOU, , sheng luo, YueHui YANG
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025101
[Abstract](12) [PDF 1865KB](10)
Abstract:
To understand the distribution patterns of in-situ stress and fault stability in the engineering area of a large hydropower station on the northern margin of the eastern Himalayan syntaxis, hydraulic fracturing stress measurements and three-dimensional stress field inversion analysis were conducted. This revealed the stress distribution characteristics in key structures such as the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels. The results indicate: (1) The principal stress relationship generally follows SH>Sv>Sh, with horizontal stress dominating—indicative of a strike-slip stress regime. The dominant orientation of the maximum horizontal principal stress is NEE, consistent with the principal compressive stress direction derived from focal mechanism solutions. This suggests that the current strike-slip shear stress environment is primarily controlled by the NE-directed compression of the Indian Plate against the Eurasian Plate. (2) Measured principal stresses increase linearly with depth: SH ranges from 3.0 MPa to 11.0 MPa, and Sh from 2.0 MPa to 6.7 MPa, corresponding to gradients of 1.82 MPa/100 m and 0.72 MPa/100 m, respectively. Compared to the Tibetan Block, mainland China, North China, and the northern segment of the North-South Seismic Belt, the overall stress level in the study area is relatively low. (3) Fault hazard analysis based on the Mohr-Coulomb criterion and Byerlee’s Law shows that the stress magnitude on the Jiali Fault within the project area does not reach the critical threshold for shallow crustal fault slip instability, indicating a relatively stable state. (4) Inversion results reveal that the maximum horizontal principal stress along water diversion tunnels and in the underground powerhouse ranges from 3.9 MPa to 11.0 MPa, gravitational stress from 5.8 MPa to 10.7 MPa, and minimum horizontal principal stress from 4.5 MPa to 7.8 MPa. The azimuth of the maximum horizontal principal stress varies between 48° and 66°. The tunnel axis predominantly intersects the orientation of the maximum horizontal principal stress at large angles, which adversely affects the stability of the surrounding rock mass.
Major Advances and Prospects in In-Situ Stress Measurement and Estimate Methods during the past 10 years(2014-2025)
ChengHu WANG, li wei
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025080
[Abstract](13) [PDF 1308KB](11)
Abstract:
 [Objective] The characteristics of the in-situ stress field are key fundamental parameters for major strategic underground engineering projects, deep earth resource and energy development, and geohazard prevention and control. Over the past decade, significant progress and breakthroughs have been made in in-situ stress measurement and estimation methods. [Method] This article systematically reviews the main advances in in-situ stress measurement and estimation methods from 2014 to 2025, which can be categorized into four technical fields: core-based methods, borehole-based methods, geophysics-based methods, and emerging data-driven estimation methods. [Results] Core-based testing methods have improved the accuracy of in-situ stress magnitude measurements through theoretical refinements and enhanced the precision of stress direction determination through equipment upgrades, addressing the previous inability to measure in-situ stress in low-strength rocks. Borehole-based testing methods have achieved sensors with high temperature and pressure resistance, as well as corrosion resistance, enabling deep borehole imaging, direction identification, and in-situ stress measurement. Accurate analytical solutions for in-situ stress magnitudes have been obtained through corrections. Geophysics-based methods have enabled the inversion of the in-situ stress field using focal mechanism solutions of minor earthquakes (magnitude 0.5–1.0), providing extensive rock mass stress information. Acoustic, imaging, and dipmeter logging technologies have also evolved into non-contact, high-precision, and high-sensitivity equipment, making them more suitable for deep boreholes and oilfield development. With the advancement of big data and artificial intelligence, emerging data-driven testing methods can be divided into three categories based on prediction approaches: machine learning, intelligent neural network prediction, and intelligent back-analysis. These methods have advanced in-situ stress measurement from discrete "point measurements" to full-field "field reconstruction." [Conclusion]Compared to traditional methods, current in-situ stress testing is moving toward "deepening, intelligentization, and systematization." [Significance]Future research should focus on the dual drivers of intelligent prediction models and intelligent testing equipment to address the challenges of complex deep geological environments.
Tectonic stress field and crustal strength of the central-south Tanlu Fault Zone
Wen MENG, QunCe CHEN, , xin huang
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025107
[Abstract](17) [PDF 1958KB](6)
Abstract:
The accurate estimation of crustal strength, which is the capacity of the lithosphere to resist tectonic deformation, is fundamental to both seismic hazard assessment and geodynamic studies. This study integrates borehole logging data and focal mechanism solutions from the central-south Tan-Lu Fault Zone to analyze the characteristics of the tectonic stress field. The results indicate that the stress states in the shallow and deep crust are generally consistent, with a predominantly strike-slip stress regime and the maximum horizontal principal stress oriented preferentially ENE-WSW. The regional fault friction coefficient is approximately 0.3, significantly lower than the 0.6–1.0 range suggested by Byerlee's law, indicating a moderate level of fault frictional strength. Furthermore, constrained by these findings, a crustal strength profile was established for the central-south Tanlu Fault Zone. The profile reveals a relatively strong upper and middle crust underlain by an extremely weak lower crust, with regional tectonic forces primarily transmitted through the upper and middle crust. This extremely weak lower crust is closely linked to the destruction of the North China Craton since the Mesozoic, likely serving as both a consequence and a facilitating mechanism of the deep deformation processes that led to lithospheric thinning.
 
Study on the comparison of excavation schemes for underground plant caverns based on in-situ stress field inversion
chunlei zhao, zishuo li, yanxin zhang, Qiang WANG
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025081
[Abstract](17) [PDF 1417KB](7)
Abstract:
Controlling the stability of surrounding rock during the excavation of large underground powerhouses represents a key challenge for the safe and efficient construction of pumped storage power stations. Taking the underground powerhouse project of the Daya River Hydropower Station (Daya River HPS) as the study object, this research integrated field hydraulic fracturing measurements and multivariate linear regression inversion to establish the initial in-situ stress field model for the powerhouse area, laying the foundation for subsequent excavation scheme analysis. For three proposed excavation sequence schemes, the entropy weight-TOPSIS method was applied to assign weights to indicators across three critical aspects: principal stresses, displacements, and plastic zone distribution. This enabled an objective evaluation of surrounding rock stability. Scheme I demonstrated a relative closeness coefficient of 0.78, proving superior to the other two schemes and was thus selected as the optimal excavation plan. The study demonstrates that the evaluation results align with the mechanical response laws of the surrounding rock revealed by numerical simulation. The findings provide a basis for subsequent support design and safe construction, while also offering significant theoretical reference and a practical case study for the design of excavation schemes in similar complex geological conditions.
Numerical Simulation of Deformation and Stress Processes in Fault-Bend Folding: Quantitative Constraints Based on Elastoplastic Parameter Control
ma jia, WANG Xiaochen, DengFa HE, weikang zhang, Guo LU, hanyu huang, ChiYue LIU
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025093
[Abstract](20) [PDF 4110KB](6)
Abstract:
Objective Fault-bend folds, characteristic structures in fold-and-thrust belts, act as key kinematic units for analyzing compressional deformation and form structural traps at flat–ramp transitions, making them critical targets in foreland basin hydrocarbon exploration.Methods Using Suppe’s theoretical model and finite element simulations, we developed a geomechanical model with realistic rock properties. Boundary conditions for fold formation were defined, and stress-strain patterns during evolution were analyzed. The Mohr–Coulomb model was applied to assess six parameters—density (ρ), Young’s modulus (E), Poisson’s ratio (υ), internal friction angle (ϕ), cohesion (c), and dilation angle (ψ)—for identifying dominant controls.Results Open boundaries enable fault-bend fold development consistent with classical models, whereas fixed boundaries cause marked forelimb tilting and non-classical deformation. Stress-strain partitioning is distinct: fold limbs and the upper ramp experience compression; the core and upper flat undergo extension. Both axial surfaces show upward-decreasing stress concentrations and plastic strain. The lower axial surface builds the backlimb and initiates shear fracturing; the upper axial surface shapes the anticlinal core and forelimb under tension, developing potential fracture systems. Cohesion (c) and internal friction angle (ϕ) are key, governing fold wavelength and forelimb steepness, respectively, with nonlinear threshold behaviors. Young’s modulus and dilation angle have localized, minor influence; density and Poisson’s ratio show negligible effects.Conclusion Fault-bend folding evolves as a progressive deformation where strata adjust to pre-existing fault geometry under compression, forming a kinematic sequence from initial slip and backlimb growth, through fold nucleation and propagation, to final stabilization with complex derived structures. Cohesion and internal friction angle are the decisive controlling parameters.Significance This numerical analysis clarifies the development mechanisms, stress-strain organization, and controlling factors of fault-bend folds, deepening the theoretical understanding of compressional tectonic deformation.
A linearized fitting-based method for determining key pressure parameters in hydraulic fracturing and its applicability evaluatio
Haifan XIAO, NingYu WU, GuiYun GAO, JiKun LIU, XinShuai YANG, XiaoPan HUANG
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025091
[Abstract](20) [PDF 1733KB](9)
Abstract:
To improve the accuracy of identifying key parameters such as instantaneous shut-in pressure (Ps ) and reopening pressure (Pr ) in hydraulic fracturing tests, and to address issues in conventional methods (e.g., tangent method, shifted Pb method, and Muskat method) that are susceptible to noise interference, strong subjectivity, and limited precision when handling nonlinear pressure–time curves, a parameter identification method based on linearized curve fitting is proposed. This method transforms the nonlinear pressure–time curve into multiple locally linear segments through polynomial smoothing and piecewise linear regression, and automatically identifies Ps  and Pr  by detecting abrupt slope changes between adjacent segments. The method was validated through laboratory true triaxial hydraulic fracturing tests on granite specimens and field measurements at the Jizhou pumped storage power station in Tianjin (depth range 75–277 m). Results show that the linearized curve fitting method achieves high accuracy and stability in identifying Ps  and Pr , with significantly reduced average deviation compared to the tangent, shifted Pb , and Muskat methods. Moreover, it demonstrates good robustness under conditions of data disturbance and strong nonlinear responses. This method effectively enhances the objectivity, consistency, and noise resistance of parameter interpretation, is suitable for in-situ stress measurement in hard brittle rock masses, and provides a practical tool for intelligent identification and interpretation of hydraulic fracturing data, with promising engineering application and promotion prospects.
Can borehole observations characterize crustal stress?
ma xiaodong
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025153
[Abstract](47) [PDF 1208KB](14)
Abstract:
Knowledge of the in situ stress state is of great importance to understanding a wide range of geomechanical processes in the Earth’s crust, and to addressing many practical problems in the subsurface. The in situ stress characterization in boreholes through the classic hydraulic fracturing tests and borehole failure observations has enabled fundamental knowledge of the state of stress in the brittle upper crust. Compiling borehole observations and other stress indicators at much larger scales, a coherent and consistent stress orientation and relative stress magnitude over appreciable depths and between boreholes at the regional scale becomes evident. Stress magnitudes determined from hydraulic fracturing method and borehole failure observations are consistent with the classic Anderson and Coulomb faulting theories, with the empirical Byerlee’s law, which is useful in constraining the in situ stress state and quantifying fault stability. The general state of frictional equilibrium in the upper crust is present, although stress variations at local scales due to discontinuities, lithology contrasts and other factors are practically ubiquitous. To date, the hydraulic fracturing method and borehole failure observations, and their evolved variants, remain extremely useful. However, our progress in better characterizing and understanding the in situ stress is out of sync with the latest technological advances in instrumentation, modeling and data science. The experimental and theoretical efforts in characterizing in situ stress and understanding its heterogeneity are not well coordinated and integrated, thus hindering stress data collection and interpretation. It is imperative to fundamentally revolutionize how we collect, interpret and share the stress data with innovative developments in crustal stress characterization.
Insights into the statistical relationship between focal mechanisms and stress from synthetic experiments
zhenyue li, YongGe WAN
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025082
[Abstract](38) [PDF 1629KB](10)
Abstract:
Abstract: [Objective] The extent to which the spatial distribution patterns (particularly the clustering characteristics) of fault nodal planes or the P, B, and T axes of a set of focal mechanism data can provide information about background stress causing earthquakes has long been a controversial academic topic. [Methods] This study systematically investigates this issue through synthetic experiments designed on the basis of the stress–fault slip relationship, with stress parameters including the orientations of the three principal stresses and the stress shape ratio (R). [Results] The experimental results demonstrate that the spatial distribution patterns of both fault nodal planes and PBT axes are jointly controlled by the stress shape ratio and the fault failure conditions. In most cases, the two nodal planes exhibit widely scattered spatial distributions. Only when the shape ratio is close to 0.5 and the contact area between the Mohr-Coulomb failure envelope and Mohr’s circle is minimized do the distributions of both the actual and the auxiliary planes become relatively concentrated. Under these specific conditions, the fault nodal planes (their normals) gain statistical significance for estimating stress orientations. Identifying the actual fault plane among the two nodal planes in focal mechanisms would enhance the determination of principal stress directions. Notably, the spatial distribution of PBT axes effectively captures both the principal stress orientations and the shape ratio. Key findings include: ① Due to the influence of fault failure conditions and the shape ratio, the P, B, and T axes may not cluster or disperse simultaneously. However, when clustering occurs, they converge near the σ1 , σ2 , or σ3  axes, respectively. ② A ring-shaped (toroidal) distribution of T axes indicates a high R-value. ③ P and T axes never exhibit fully random scattering; if such disorder is observed in real data, it suggests that the focal mechanisms may not share a common stress regime. [Conclusion] This study provides critical constraints for evaluating whether focal mechanism data used in stress inversion belong to a unified stress regime and for predicting stress parameters from the distribution of PBT axes. [Significance] These results offer significant implications for developing and applying stress inversion methodology using focal mechanisms.
Research Progress and Perspectives on Crustal Stress and Earthquakes
shuxin yang, Rui YAO, YuJiang LI, LuYuan HUANG, XingPing HU
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025104
[Abstract](65) [PDF 650KB](20)
Abstract:
The crustal stress state is a key physical parameter for understanding lithospheric dynamics, elucidating earthquake preparation mechanisms, and assessing regional seismic hazards. It also provides essential data for the optimal design, safe construction, and operation of major underground energy and geotechnical engineering projects. Systematically reviewing the research context in this field and clarifying the current progress and challenges can provide guidance for future research. [Methods] Through a systematic review and synthesis, the technical methodologies and the evolution of development paradigms are summarized in three interconnected domains: acquisition of crustal stress data, analysis and modeling of stress fields, and stress processes associated with earthquakes . [Results] (1) Progress in stress information acquisition: Observation techniques have advanced from shallow to deep levels and from single-site measurements to network-based monitoring. Traditional methods have been continuously refined, while deep borehole in-situ techniques such as anelastic strain recovery (ASR) and differential strain curve analysis (DSCA) have extended observation depths beyond 5 km. Integration of multidisciplinary data has become a prominent trend. (2) Advances in stress field analysis and modeling: Methodologies have evolved from analytical and numerical approaches to an intelligent framework integrating mechanism, data, and knowledge. Numerical models have developed from two-dimensional elastic formulations to three-dimensional visco-elastoplastic representations, enabling dynamic characterization of regional four-dimensional stress fields. (3) Developments in earthquake-related stress processes: In-situ stress measurements, Coulomb stress modeling, and combined physical–numerical experiments jointly reveal the cyclic pattern of “quiescence–accumulation–release–adjustment” during earthquake preparation, as well as stress triggering and shadow effects, and the physical mechanisms underlying fault instability nucleation. [Conclusions] Current research still faces challenges such as the scarcity of deep stress data, the complexity of multi-source data integration, and high uncertainty in initial stress field determination. Future studies should focus on developing intelligent, multi-method technologies for deep stress observation; constructing machine learning–based inversion and four-dimensional dynamic stress field models constrained by physical principles; advancing research on thermo–chemical–mechanical coupling rheology; and promoting a new paradigm for seismic prediction that integrates stress mechanisms, big data, and expert knowledge, thereby providing a more robust scientific foundation for seismic risk assessment and disaster prevention and mitigation. [Significance] By reviewing the advancements and prospects in crustal stress and earthquake research, references and insights are provided for the observation and analysis of seismic stress processes and for research on seismic dynamic prediction methods.
Study on disaster-prone geological structure and instability mode of typical goaf landslide in Southwest mountainous area
HaoXiang ZHANG, SaiNan ZHU, LeiHua YAO, Feng GAO, LiMei ZHANG, Long YANG, WeiJia TAN, XuSheng DAI, Yu GAO
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025047
[Abstract](52) [PDF 2775KB](6)
Abstract:
Abstract: [Objective] Landslides occur frequently in the goaf areas of the mountainous regions in southwest China. The purpose of this study is to explore the commonalities and differences among such landslides, so as to formulate scientific disaster prevention and mitigation countermeasures. [Methods] This article takes the Jiguanling landslide in the limestone area, the Zhaojiagou landslide in the clastic rock area and the Shanyang landslide in the metamorphic rock area as the research objects for a comparative study. It adopts methods such as data collection and analysis, on-site investigation, multi-phase remote sensing interpretation, physical and mechanical tests of rock and soil masses and numerical simulation to analyze the similarities and differences in the disaster-prone geological structure and instability mechanism of the research objects.[Results] The research results show that when the slope has features such as steep terrain, good open-air conditions and binary structure, landslide disasters are prone to occur. The numerical simulation results indicate that under the goaf condition, the displacement of each landslide increases, the maximum shear strain increment is concentrated in the potential sliding surface and the roof area of the goaf, and the overall stability of each landslide decreases. [Conclusion] The limestone mountainous area is characterized by thick layers of hard rock interbedded with thin layers of soft rock, presenting high-intensity rock mass characteristics. The Jiguanling landslide belongs to the toppling - sliding failure mode type. The clastic rock mountainous area is affected by the interbedded structure of thin-layer fragmented soft and hard rocks, and the overall strength of the rock mass is weakened. The Zhaojiagou landslide belongs to the type of creep - tensile fracture failure mode. The metamorphic rock mountainous area presents a structure of hard rock at the top and soft rock at the bottom, with significant differences in strength. The Shanyang landslide belongs to the type of slipping-collapse failure mode. [Significance] This article provides an important scientific basis for the early identification and disaster formation pattern research of landslides in goaf areas.
 
Tectonic stress field characteristics in Wushi , Xinjiang and the stress impact of the Wushi M7.1 earthquake
ZeYao SONG, YongGe WAN, PeiYuan GU, MingYue ZHOU
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025085
[Abstract](101) [PDF 2767KB](17)
Abstract:
[Objective] The Wushi region in Xinjiang is located at the intersection of multiple tectonic units, making it a key area for stress concentration and release. Although previous studies have revealed some characteristics of the tectonic stress field in this region, there is still a lack of in-depth and systematic analysis regarding the potential impact of the 23 January 2024 Wushi M 7.1 earthquake on the regional stress field. Therefore, adopt more systematic focal mechanism data to conduct a detailed analysis of the regional tectonic stress field characteristics and to explore the influence of the Wushi M 7.1 earthquake on the regional stress field. The aim is to provide more comprehensive scientific references for understanding the regional seismogenic environment and predicting future seismic activity.[Methods] Using the damped stress tensor inversion method and incorporating data from multiple institutions, we analyzed the stress field in different subregions of the study area and compared the changes in the tectonic stress field before and after the earthquake.[Results] The results of the stress field inversion show that, except for the area near the Jiashi seismic group, the R value is greater than 0.5, and the azimuth of the maximum principal compressive stress in the Wushi region gradually rotates from approximately NNW in the south to near N—S in the north, the azimuth is from 168.75° to 183.45°, and plunge angle is from 6.85° to 19.58°, it is in a compressive stress state. The Jiashi seismic area cluster shows a strike-slip feature of NNE—SSW compression and NWW—SEE extension.The northern area of the Jiashi seismic shows a thrust stress state, while the southern area presents a strike-slip stress state. By comparing and analyzing the regional stress field changes before and after the Wushi earthquake, it is found that the optimal principal compressive stress direction before the earthquake was N—S direction, and deviated by 12.53° in azimuth after the earthquake, with a spatial rotation angle of 15.06°. This indicates that this earthquake had a relatively small impact on the stress field of this area, which meaning that the stress field did not undergo significant changes after the earthquake, and still remains in the compressive stress system. [Conclusion] The tectonic stress field in the Wushi region is subject to N—S compression from the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate on the western margin of the Tibetan Plateau to form a strong near-north-south horizontal compression, and the stress from the plate collision is transmitted to the northeast to the Tian Shan orogenic belt, which leads to the shortening of the crust and retrograde thrusting between the Tarim Basin and the Tian Shan. The Wushi M 7.1 earthquake had a relatively minor impact on the regional stress field. The stress system of the entire area is still controlled by deep tectonic activities. The overall stress field is consistent, but the seismic cluster in northern Jiashi is located at the junction of the northern margin of the Tarim Plate and the Tianshan Mountains, presenting a thrust stress mechanism. This area is the plate tectonic transition boundary between the Tarim Basin and the Tianshan orogenic belt.[Significance] By analyzing the characteristics of the tectonic stress field in the Wushi region of Xinjiang and the impact of the Wushi M 7.1 earthquake on the regional stress field, the characteristics of the stress field and the effect of earthquakes on the regional stress field. This contributes to a deeper understanding of the tectonic relationship between the Tianshan orogenic belt and the Tarim Basin. In addition, the northern part of the Jiashi seismic exhibits a thrust stress mechanism, which is inferred to represent a tectonic transition boundary between the Tarim Basin and the Tianshan orogenic belt. This finding holds significant implications for regional tectonic segmentation and seismic hazard assessment.
Analysis of structural surface stability in the Panlong lead-zinc mine and engineering implications
HUANG XiaoPan, WANG ChengHu, YANG ChengWei, LIU JiKun, XIAO HaiFan
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025083
[Abstract](96) [PDF 2246KB](10)
Abstract:
 [Objective] The Panlong lead-zinc deposit, an important polymetallic deposit in the central Guangxi region. The increasing depth brings challenges related to high in-situ stress and structurally complex rock masses. Instabilities along structural planes have become a major geotechnical hazard. However, current understanding of the interplay between fracture geometries and stress fields remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the stability of structural surfaces at depth and their implications for safe mine development. [Methods] High-resolution data on fracture orientation and spacing were obtained through ultrasonic borehole television imaging in boreholes SK1 and SK2. Hydraulic fracturing tests were used to determine the magnitude and orientation of in-situ stresses. Stress tensor transformation and the Coulomb friction criterion were applied to estimate shear and normal stresses on structural planes and assess their slip tendency under current stress conditions. [Results] The rock mass in the Panlong mine contains steeply dipping structural planes predominantly oriented NW–NNW and NE–NEE. Cluster analysis revealed three dominant fracture sets, reflecting tectonic control from nearby faults. Furthermore, in-situ stress measurements between 500~850 m depth show SH = 28.29~44.69 MPa, Sh = 19.46~27.09 MPa, and Sv = 14.50~22.68 MPa. The lateral stress coefficients kH and kh average 2.07 and 1.28, respectively, indicating a horizontal compressive regime with SH oriented NW–NNW. Analysis of borehole breakouts and drilling-induced fractures supports the NW–NNW orientation of maximum horizontal stress. Subsequently, a total of 2,948 structural planes were analyzed. Slip tendency evaluation based on slip tendency (Ts = 0.2~0.4) shows that fractures with Ts > 0.20 are primarily distributed at depths less than 550 m. Steeper fracture planes (40°~75°) exhibit a high slip potential, indicating a higher likelihood of shear slip. NW–NNW-oriented planes exhibit both high density and high slip potential, especially when fracture aperture exceeds 10 mm. [Conclusion] It is found that the structural planes in the Panlong mine are characterized by steep dips and strong orientation clustering, primarily NW–NNW and NE–NEE, reflecting significant tectonic control. The in-situ stress regime is governed by horizontal compression, which favors the activation of reverse faults. This aligns with observed fracture development and supports the role of tectonic faults in stress field evolution. NW–NNW-oriented fractures, particularly those with low slip tendency and wide apertures, pose the highest risk for shear reactivation under current conditions and require targeted monitoring and support. Furthermore, structural planes in shallow zones (<550 m) present higher slip potential than deeper zones, emphasizing the need for depth-specific design strategies. [Significance] The findings provide a detailed understanding of structural plane behavior under deep mining conditions and provides scientific support for roadway layout optimization, support system design, and hazard mitigation.
Research and development of volumetric mining-induced stress monitoring sensors and their applications
Guanghan LI, DongSheng SUN, Jun HAN, GUO BaoLong, ShuangWen MA, QunCe CHEN, ZhiJie ZHU
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025078
[Abstract](126) [PDF 1718KB](11)
Abstract:
[Objective] With coal mining depth continuously advancing to the kilometer level, the dynamic evolution characteristics of mining-induced stress fields have become a crucial challenge for deep surrounding rock stability control and dynamic disaster early warning. Existing traditional monitoring equipment is limited by uniaxial measurement, and suffers from insufficient monitoring sensitivity and poor long-term stability in heterogeneous media such as coal and rock masses, failing to meet the precise monitoring needs of deep mining.[Methods] This study proposes a new type of volumetric mining-induced stress monitoring sensor. Through complete coupling between its cylindrical sensing structure and the surrounding rock of the borehole, it breaks through the uniaxial measurement limitation of traditional equipment, enabling real-time monitoring of mining-induced stress changes caused by micro-deformations of surrounding rock masses. [Results] Laboratory tests, field tests, and application results show the following:①In laboratory tests, the pressure change output by the sensor shows a highly linear relationship with axial stress, with a sensitivity of 0.456, which is better than that of traditional stress gauges;②Long-term stability tests indicate that under high and low stress environments, the sensor’s pressure fluctuations show no continuous drift or data jumps, demonstrating good long-term monitoring stability;③Temperature characteristic experiments reveal a linear relationship between temperature and pressure changes, verifying the universality of the temperature compensation formula;④In the field application at Yadian Coal Mine in Binchang Mining Area, Shaanxi Province, the sensor successfully captured stress fluctuations synchronized with the mining cycle. In sudden stress events such as roof fractures, its response speed and accuracy were significantly better than traditional equipment, and the monitoring data showed a strong correlation with microseismic monitoring results;⑤In the test in hard rock environments of metal mines, the sensor also exhibited long-term stable monitoring capability. [Conclusion] ①The new volumetric mining-induced stress monitoring sensor breaks through the uniaxial measurement limitation of traditional equipment, significantly improving monitoring sensitivity and long-term stability in heterogeneous media;②Laboratory tests verify its linear response characteristics, high sensitivity, and temperature adaptability, while field applications prove that it can effectively capture the dynamic evolution characteristics of mining-induced stress;③The sensor can work stably in different mining environments such as coal mines and metal mines, showing strong applicability. [Significance] This research solves the key problems of insufficient monitoring sensitivity and poor long-term stability of mining-induced stress in deep heterogeneous media. It provides reliable technical support for capturing precursor information of dynamic disasters in deep mines and early warning of delayed rockbursts in tunnels, with important scientific value and application innovation.
Tectonic evolution of the Sumatran Fault: synthesis and perspective
GUO Lin, CHU Yang, LIN Wei, LEI YiYang, LIU TanJie, GUO YiLin, MENG LingTong
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025067
[Abstract](162) [PDF 3242KB](24)
Abstract:
Abstract: [Objective]Oblique convergence between the Indo-Australian Plate and the Eurasian Plate produced a ~1,900-km-long dextral strike-slip fault—the Sumatran Fault—within the overriding plate. While previous studies have extensively examined its geometry, kinematics, and seismicity, the tectonic evolution of the fault remains poorly constrained. [Methods] This study integrates multidisciplinary evidence from structural geology, geomorphology, seismicity analysis, geodesy (GPS), low-temperature thermochronology (apatite/zircon (U-Th)/He dating), and volcanic distribution mapping. We systematically synthesize data on fault segmentation, slip rates, cumulative displacement, magmatic-tectonic relationships, and regional geodynamic models to evaluate the fault’s spatiotemporal evolution. [Results] The Sumatran Fault is a highly segmented dextral strike-slip system, currently can be divided into 19 segments by geometric complexities and seismic activities. Slip rates along the fault are relatively uniform from south to north, with an average rate around ~15 mm/yr, and a total cumulative displacement estimated at approximately 20–25 km. Regionally, the distribution of active arc magmatism closely aligns with the trace of the fault, indicating a dynamic interaction between faulting and magmatism: while magma-induced crustal weakening facilitates fault development, extensional zones associated with normal faulting in turn influence the volcanic activity. Despite its tectonic significance, low-temperature thermochronological studies on the Sumatran Fault remain limited. Existing thermochronological data reveal a period of rapid uplift at ~2 Ma, likely driven by dip-slip motion along the fault. [Conclusion] A three-stage model is proposed. From an earlier period up to 2 Ma, oblique convergence accommodated primarily by the forearc faults (e.g., Mentawai Fault) and shear zones. Around 2 Ma, the Sumatran Fault initiated, coevally with the Mentawai Fault, manifesting strain localization in the overriding plate. At present, the Sumatran Fault accommodates the majority of the strain, while strike-slip motion on the Mentawai Fault has significantly diminished. The uplift phase correlates with the initial timing of the Sumatran Fault inferred from present-day slip rates and cumulative offsets, suggesting that the current throughgoing structure of the fault and the modern tectonic framework were established at the same time. [Significance] To better understand the dynamics of large strike-slip faults at obliquely convergent margins, comprehensive geochronological and structural investigations—particularly focused on fault segmentation and deformation timing—are essential. It helps to provide a paradigm for understanding strain partitioning and the genesis of trench-parallel strike-slip faults at oblique convergent margins globally, with implications for seismic hazard assessment and plate boundary reorganization.
Analysis on the three-dimensional in-situ stress state and underground cavern stability of a pumped storage hydropower project area in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
xiaofei zhang, JiMing WANG, Peng ZHANG, ZhengZheng LI, changhu li, JiangQuan OUYANG
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025076
[Abstract](105) [PDF 1517KB](12)
Abstract:
[Objective] In order to investigate the characteristics of the in-situ stress field and the stability of surrounding rock in underground caverns of a large-scale, deeply buried pumped storage power station on the southern margin of the Tianshan Orogenic Belt in Xinjiang, and to ensure the geological safety of the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels. [Methods] This study conducted the following work: First, two sets of three-dimensional hydraulic fracturing stress measurements were carried out in the underground powerhouse to obtain fundamental data on the in-situ stress field. Subsequently, a 3D geological model of the project area was established, and the 3D in-situ stress field was inverted using finite element numerical simulation. Finally, based on the distribution characteristics of the 3D stress field, the stability of the underground caverns was evaluated from two aspects: the rationality of the cavern axis layout and the risk of rockburst in the surrounding rock of the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels. [Results] The results indicate:  (1)The 3D in-situ stress measurements in the underground powerhouse reveal that the maximum principal stress (σ1) ranges from 16.19 to 16.23 MPa, oriented N43.98°E–N54.44°E with a dip angle of -4.81° to 6.93°; the intermediate principal stress (σ2) ranges from 9.82 to 12.23 MPa, oriented approximately SE with a dip angle of -18.89° to -14.52°; and the minimum principal stress (σ3) ranges from 6.90 to 10.41 MPa, exhibiting a near-vertical orientation. (2)The 3D stress field inversion shows that the maximum principal stress (σ1) in the underground powerhouse ranges from 16.54 to 17.21 MPa, with an azimuth of N47.88°E–N56.32°E, while along the axis of the water diversion tunnel, σ1 ranges from 14.86 to 24.32 MPa. [Conclusion] The angles between the axes of the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels and the measured maximum horizontal principal stress (SH) deviate by ≤10°from the optimal angle (62.84°) for an SHV-type stress field, which is favorable for cavern stability. Based on multiple criteria, including the rock strength-stress ratio method and Tao Zhenyu’s criterion, the surrounding rock of the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels is generally classified as having a slight rockburst risk. [Significance] The findings provide a scientific basis for the design and construction of the underground powerhouse and water diversion tunnels of this pumped storage power station, while also supplementing the lack of 3D in-situ stress measurement data on the southern margin of the Tianshan Orogenic Belt in Xinjiang.


 
NUMERICAL SIMULATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF NORMAL STRESS ON STRIKE-SLIP FAULT SUB-INSTABILITY COORDINATION
DAI ShuHong, SUN ZhaoYang
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025022
[Abstract](152) [PDF 0KB](0)
Abstract:
[Objective] In order to reveal the synergy law of strike-slip faults under different normal stresses, this study systematically investigates the instability process of strike-slip faults through numerical simulation methods. [Methods] By using the numerical simulation method, based on the FLAC3D software and the frictional-hardening and frictional-softening model, a numerical model of strip-slip fault (elastic modulus 22.3 GPa, Poisson's ratio 0.25) is established. Six normal stress schemes (0.1~3.5 MPa) are set, and the loading rate is 0.5 mm/min for all. By comparing and analyzing the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of the shear strain field of strike-slip faults under different normal stress conditions, the influence of normal stress on the evolution of the shear strain field and fault displacement is discussed. Based on the changes of the shear strain field and fault displacement, the degree of synergy is quantitatively determined. [Results] Under the same conditions, the normal strain perpendicular to the fault direction shows a decreasing trend with the increase of time steps; while the shear strain parallel to the fault direction has similar evolution patterns at different monitoring points but with different mean values. The mean value of shear strain at monitoring point 1 is negative, that at monitoring point 11 is positive, and the mean values at monitoring points 2 to 10 tend to zero, the monitoring points refer to the locations where data changes are obtained. In the sub-unstable stage, when the fault stress accumulates to the critical point, the shear strain in the weak areas within the system increases significantly first. The range of the concentrated shear strain area gradually expands and connects, eventually forming a continuous shear strain connected area. Normal stress is positively correlated with both coseismic displacement and shear strain, and the change in shear strain energy density is also positively correlated with stress. Normal stress has an important influence on the displacement in the sub-unstable stage. With the increase of normal stress, the synergy coefficient gradually decreases and the degree of synergy increases. In the sub-unstable stage, the synergy coefficient shows a significant downward trend. [Conclusion] Normal stress significantly affects the degree of coordination in the sub-instability stage of strike-slip faults by regulating the spatial distribution and release process of shear strain energy. The increase in normal stress leads to an increase in co-seismic displacement, an accumulation and enhancement of shear strain energy, and effectively improves the degree of fault coordination. The synergy coefficient can be used as a key indicator to quantify the degree of synergy before fault instability and has application value in identifying the sub-instability state of faults. [Significance] This study clarifies the positive correlation between normal stress and the degree of coordination of strike-slip faults, providing an important scientific basis for earthquake prediction and disaster prevention and mitigation.
Geochemical characteristics of late Paleozoic-Early Mesozoic volcanic rocks in Heiyingshan, Beishan orogenic belt: indication of Paleo-Asian ocean from subduction to collision
DING YiWen, SHAO ZhaoGang, CHEN YanFei, CHEN XuanHua, LI Bing, YU Wei, XU DaXing, HAN LeLe
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025017
[Abstract](154) [PDF 3841KB](8)
Abstract:
[Objective] Regarding the tectonic evolution of the Paleo-Asian Ocean in the northern part of the Beishan orogenic belt, it is generally believed that the Carboniferous-Permian is in the stage of ocean-continent evolution. However, there is much controversy among scholars about the closure time of the Paleo-Asian Ocean. The Heiyingshan area is located in the northern margin of the Beishan orogenic belt and is a key area for studying the evolution of the Paleo-Asian Ocean in the Beishan orogenic belt. The geochemical characteristics of tuff in this area are analyzed in order to reveal its tectonic evolution background and further constrain the evolution process of the Paleo-Asian Ocean in the northern Beishan orogenic belt. [Methods] The Late Carboniferous and Late Triassic volcanic tuffs exposed in Heiyingshan area were analyzed by means of petrological and geochemical methods. Through the determination of major, trace and rare earth elements, the geochemical characteristics of the volcanic tuffs were obtained. Combined with the published regional volcanic rock age and geochemical data, the petrogenesis and tectonic setting of volcanic tuff are discussed. [Results] The results show that the Late Carboniferous volcanic tuff belongs to the peraluminous calc-alkaline series, which is enriched in large ion lithophile elements (LILE) Rb, Ba, Th and U, and depleted in high field strength elements Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf and Ti. The total rare earth element ΣREE is 74.64×10-6~142.45×10-6, and the light and heavy rare earth fractionation is obvious (LREE/HREE=5.14~7.49, (La/Yb)N=4.58~6.36). The chondrite-normalized rare earth distribution pattern is right-leaning, with weak negative Eu anomaly (δEu=0.35~0.66). It shows the characteristics of I-type granite. The Late Triassic volcanic tuff belongs to the peraluminous high-K calc-alkaline series, rich in silicon and alkali, poor in aluminum and magnesium, with strong negative Eu anomaly (δEu=0.02~0.22). The chondrite-normalized rare earth distribution pattern is slightly right-leaning ‘seagull type’, enriched in large ion lithophile elements such as Rb, Th and U, depleted in incompatible elements such as Ba, Nb, Zr and Ti, depleted in high field strength elements Hf and Zr, and has the characteristics of S-type granite. The Th content of the Late Carboniferous and Late Triassic rock samples in the Heiyingshan area is 7.66~32.2μg/g, with an average of 19.24μg/g, which is much higher than the average mantle abundance and closer to the crust. The Nb/Ta values of the rock samples are 8.01~12.78, with an average value of 10.36, which is much lower than the average value of 60 in the mantle and closer to the average value of 11 in the crust. In addition, the Ba/La ratios of the Late Carboniferous volcanic rocks range from 19.19 to 24.09, with an average of 21.64, slightly higher than the continental crust average of 15.63. [Conclusion] The results show that the Late Carboniferous and Late Triassic volcanic tuffs in the Heiyingshan area were formed in the subduction and collision background of the Paleo-Asian Ocean, respectively, indicating that the tectonic environment changed from the Late Carboniferous to the Late Triassic in the Hongshishan-Heiyingshan area. The volcanic magma in this area is mainly derived from partial melting of the crust, and the Late Carboniferous volcanic rocks may be mixed with a small amount of mantle-derived materials. [Significance] The geochemical characteristics of the Late Carboniferous and Late Triassic volcanic tuffs in the Heiyingshan area provide petrological evidence for the subduction-collision process of the Paleo-Asian Ocean in the Beishan orogenic belt. The results limit the time limit of the tectonic environment transformation in the Hongshishan-Heiyingshan area in the northern Beishan, which is of great significance for understanding the final closure process of the Paleo-Asian Ocean.
Composition, tectonic framework, and evolution of the Luxi Orogenic Belt in the North China Craton
DongMing WANG, JianMin HU, YuanFang ZHAO, JiYuan YAN, WangBin GONG, ZhiGang ZHANG
 doi: 10.12090/j.issn.1006-6616.2025033
[Abstract](137) [PDF 5011KB](19)
Abstract:
[Objective] The growth and evolution of the early Earth’s crust is one of the hot topics in Precambrian research. The accretion and evolution of Earth’s early crust represent one of the central scientific questions in Early Precambrian research. As one of the oldest cratons in the world, the North China Craton (NCC) has undergone a complex cratonization process accompanied by crustal growth and reformation. [Methods] Petrological, geochemical, chronological, and deformation studies are summarized to reveal the tectonic evolution of the Luxi granite-greenstone belt in the eastern NCC. [Results] There exists a series of evidence indicating late Neoarchean crustal growth, including the continental arc and arc magmatic rocks represented by the Feicheng‒Tengzhou magmatic arc and the late Neoarchean volcanic rocks, the post-collisional crustal-derived magmatism represented by the Lushan‒Yishui magmatic belt, the sedimentation of back-arc basin defined by the late Neoarchean metamorphic sedimentary rocks, and the strike-slip shear deformation caused by the oblique convergence of plates. The >2.60 Ga tonalite, trondhjemite, granodiorite (TTG suite) and supracrustal rock belt exposed in the central part of the Luxi area represents an ancient microcontinent with apparent affinity to the Jiaoliao Block. [Conclusions] Therefore, the Luxi granite-greenstone belt is an accretionary orogenic belt located on the western margin of the Jiaoliao Block, namely the Luxi Orogenic Belt. The high-angle oblique arc-continent collision and the underplating of large amounts of mantle-derived magmas represent two crustal growth modes in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. This orogenic belt has undergone multi-stage evolution, including formation of initial oceanic crust, subduction, and intracontinental extension from the Neoarchean to the end of the Paleoproterozoic. [Significance] In the late Neoarchean, extensive crustal growth occurred around the Jiaoliao Block in the eastern NCC, which was controlled by the early plate tectonic regime characterized by hot subduction.
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