Fracturing in the Effusive Formations Caused by the Own Weight of Volcanic Structures

Abstract

It is known that volcanic eruptions released vast quantities of gases, vapors and significant amount of lava. Such volcanic release defuses intense condition beneath the crust, reduces the pressure in the deep layers. In such circumstances, the crust under its own weight and the weight of erupted lava gives deflection deformation, aiming to restore the disturbed balance between the acting forces and reactions. Based on the investigations of stress-deformed state of volcanic areas can be possible to predict the fracture in the regional lava rocks under the weight of the structure itself. The mathematical solution of the problem is examined by the example of the Aragats volcanic massif in Republic of Armenia using two possible models: Model 1, Model 2. The gravitational field of the region consists of a set relative minimums and maximums; the deepest minimum of gravity is characterized by apical zone. At the same time the central part of the massive of is contoured by large gravity gradient zones. Our comparison has shown that, according to the first approximation, there is a planned coincidence of calculated regional fractured lava zones with large gravity gradient around Mount Aragats. It is advisable to more efficiently distribute the volumes of field work in establishing deep regional fractured zones, within which congestion (and movement) of groundwater is possible.