Features and mechanism of neotectonic deformation of the Xishan fault system west of Urumqi

Abstract

We have made careful field investigation and trench exploration to the Xishan fault system in west of Urumqi, and an integrated analysis in conjunction with data of deep seismic sounding. Our result suggests that under the SN-oriented compressive stress, the Xishan block moves steadily toward the Tianshan Mountains in south, resulting in southward thrust-slip and crustal shortening, particularly the southward thrust of the Xishan fault which serves as the main boundary in south. North of the Xishan fault are the Wangjiagou fault and Jiujiawan fault which are the secondary faults associated with the Xishan fault in generation. Both faults have slippage along horizons during the uplift of the Xishan block, and the Jiujiawan fault has also a component of normal faulting due to the influence of the Bogeda nappe structure. These two faults accommodate the fold deformation of the hanging wall of the Xishan fault, thus the Xishan fault-bounded swell is characterized by monocline. All secondary faults of the Xishan fault system constitute a common seismogenic structural system, so that their seismic hazards should be considered in an equal manner.