Abstract
AbstractThe evolution of permeability on fractures and faults during the full earthquake cycle is shown to be sensitive to sealing during the repose phase. We explore the combined effect of static loading followed by fracture reactivation on permeability evolution via slide‐hold‐slide experiments. During the hold periods, permeability exhibits a slow but continuous reduction. The permeability decay is consistent with power law compaction of the aperture coupled with cubic law flow. With increasing hold periods, permeability evolves following reactivation from net reduction to net increase with the magnitude of the permeability change dependent on the hold period. This implies that the tight interlocking of asperities during interseismic repose primes the fault for permeability enhancement following reactivation. The inferred mechanism is via shear dilation with the probable involvement of unclogging. This result identifies that preslip sealing during repose is an essential component in the cyclic permeability evolution throughout the seismic cycle.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
