Aseismic negative dislocation model and deformation analysis of crustal horizontal movement during 1999–2001 in the northeast margin of Qinghai-Xizang block

Abstract

Through numerical simulation for GPS data, aseismic negative dislocation model for crustal horizontal movement during 1999–2001 in the northeast margin of Qinghai-Xizang block is presented, combined with the spatial distribution of apparent strain field in this area, the characteristics of motion and deformation of active blocks and their boundary faults, together with the place and intensity of strain accumulation are analyzed. It is shown that: a) 9 active blocks appeared totally clockwise motion from eastward by north to eastward by south. Obvious sinistral strike-slip and NE-NEE relative compressive motion between the blocks separated by Qilianshan-Haiyuan fault zone was discovered; b) 20 fault segments (most of them showed compression) locked the relative motion between blocks to varying degrees, among the total, the mid-east segment of Qilianshan fault (containing the place where it meets Riyueshan-Lajishan fault) and the place where it meets Haiyuan fault and Zhuanglanghe fault, more favored accumulation of strain. Moreover, the region where Riyueshan-Lajishan fault meets north boundary of Qaidam block may have strain accumulation to some degree. c) Obtained magnitude of block velocities and locking of their boundaries were less than relevant results for observation in the period of 1993–1999.