UMass Geomechanics

Growth of fractures around faults

fault damage

The frictional strength of faults decreases with accumulated slip. Gradients in frictional strength during rupture propagation produce local slip gradients that can facilitate the development of off-fault damage.

2D BEM models explore the sensitivity of fracture pattern to slip weakening distance.

This work is collaborative with Dr. Heather Savage of UC Santa Cruz

Animations of off-fault damage development

SWF animations Download higher resolution quicktime movies
L=2 mm
L=1.5 mm
L=0.2 mm
L=0.01 mm
L=1.5 mm second episode