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Geological Society, London, Special Publications; 1987; v. 28; p. 19-33;
DOI: 10.1144/GSL.SP.1987.028.01.03
© 1987 Geological Society of London

Fault Geometry and Associated Processes

Development of extension and mixed-mode sedimentary basins

A. Gibbs

Midland Valley Exploration, 14 Park Circus, Glasgow G3 6AX, UK

Analysis of onshore and offshore basins using a variety of techniques including deep seismic reflection profiles has shown that basins develop above linked fault systems. These fault systems comprise both steep and gently dipping faults which can have either dip- or strike-slip displacements. Whilst linked fault systems are common to all basins they are developed to different degrees and hence produce a variety of structural expressions within, and between the basins. This allows basins to be classified either in terms of their dominant structural elements or seen as a mechanical and geological continuum.

As the basins grow, changes in crustal thickness in the upper brittle crust can take place, on staircase arrays of low-angle listric faults, on steeper planar (domino) faults or commonly on a combination of both linked by crustally conservative strike-slip systems.

The development of the controlling basement elements affects the distribution and pattern of internal deformation in the evolving sedimentary fill resulting in a characteristic basin architecture. This resulting architecture has profound implications for models of the stratigraphy and sedimentology of basins, and provides an insight into the occurrence of certain facies and stratigraphic changes.

A general model for the evolution of such basin architectures is presented in this paper including both the basement structural elements and the overlying carapace of sediments with both stratigraphic and structural components.





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