Coseismic fluid–rock interactions in the Yingxiu–Beichuan surface rupture zone of the Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake and their implications for the structural diagenesis of fault rocks

Fluid Influx Promotes Local Strengthening of the Creeping Xianshuihe Fault, Eastern Tibet

“…Therefore, characterizing fluid‐rock interactions in the fault zone is essential for understanding slip mechanisms along faults (Faulkner et al., 2010; Sibson, 1994). Over the last 50 years, fluid‐rock interaction studies explored the influence of fluids on faults' seismic behavior, mostly based on the structure and composition of the fault rocks obtained from nature or friction experiments (e.g., Brantut et al., 2011; Duan et al., 2016; Y. Wang et al., 2022; Williams et al., 2017). They found that, during the co‐seismic phase, frictional heating rapidly increases pore fluid pressure, thus generating thermal pressurization effect that promotes dynamic weakening of the fault (e.g., Aretusini et al., 2021; Chen et al., 2023; Chester et al., 1993; Ferri et al., 2010; Kuo et al., 2021; Sibson, 1973; Ujiie et al., 2011; Wibberley & Shimamoto, 2005).…”

“…Therefore, characterizing fluid-rock interactions in the fault zone is essential for understanding slip mechanisms along faults (Faulkner et al, 2010;Sibson, 1994). Over the last 50 years, fluid-rock interaction studies explored the influence of fluids on faults' seismic behavior, mostly based on the structure and composition of the fault rocks obtained from nature or friction experiments (e.g., Brantut et al, 2011;Duan et al, 2016;Y. Wang et al, 2022;Williams et al, 2017).…”