Modelling Syntectonic Sedimentation: Combining a Discrete Element Model of Tectonic Deformation and a Process-based Sedimentary Model in 3D

Abstract

This paper presents a new numerical program able to model syntectonic sedimentation. The new model combines a discrete element model of the tectonic deformation of a sedimentary cover and a process-based model of sedimentation in a single framework. The integration of these two methods allows us to include the simulation of both sedimentation and deformation processes in a single and more effective model. The paper describes briefly the antecedents of the program, SimsafadimClastic and a discrete element model, in order to introduce the methodology used to merge both programs to create the new code. To illustrate the operation and application of the program, analysis of the evolution of syntectonic geometries in an extensional environment and also associated with thrust fault propagation is undertaken. Using the new code, much more complex and realistic depositional structures can be simulated together with a more complex analysis of the evolution of the deformation within the sedimentary cover, which is seen to be affected by the presence of the new syntectonic sediments.

Numerical modelling of syntectonic subaqueous sedimentation: The effect of normal faulting and a relay ramp on sediment dispersal

“…To do this, the program uses a novel approach that combines a Discrete Element Model (DEM) (Finch et al 2004;Hardy and Finch 2006) and a processbased sedimentary model, the Simsafadim-Clastic program (SFM) (Gratacós 2004, Gratacós et al 2009a, Gratacós et al 2009b, to link both processes, deformation and sedimentation (Carmona et al 2010). …”

“…The main aim of this contribution is to give a qualitative insight on this topic by analysing the settling patterns of three different fine grainsize clastic sediments into the basin, related to the growth of two overlapping normal faults. In this study, a numerical program that combines realistic models of deformation and sedimentary processes in one single model is used (Carmona et al 2010). This modelling approach allows performing a detailed study of the way sedimentation and tectonics interact in subaquatic systems.…”

“…Merging both codes provides a new tool for geological modelling (Carmona et al 2010) in which deformation is influenced by the presence of syntectonic sediment dispersal and deposition. In addition, the tectonic processes change the topographic surface, which influences fluid flow, transport and, consequently, sedimentation in the process-based sedimentary model.…”

“…Taking into account the methodology developed to model mechanical and sedimentary processes simultaneously (Carmona et al 2010), the experimental results can be represented using two different modes through a DEM in which the deformation of the pretectonic and syntectonic materials can be represented; or through the SFM, in which only the syntectonic sediments are represented using tetrahedral meshes.…”

Analytical solutions and numerical tests of elastic and failure behaviors of close‐packed lattice for brittle rocks and crystals

“…For problems with significant deformation and breakage, the DEM is more convenient and powerful, since it permits large relative motion inside the model and dynamic evolution [ Hazzard et al ., ; Boutt and McPherson , ] and does not require re‐meshing, for example, as finite element method [ Tradegard et al ., ; Mei et al ., ; Paluszny and Matthai , ]. Therefore, the DEM has been widely used in the simulation and interpretation of various geological structures that involve breakage and discontinuities, such as deformation bands [ Antonellini and Pollard , ; Wang et al ., ], the reactivation of basement faults [ Saltzer and Pollard , ], faulting over active salt diapir [ Yin et al ., ], detachment folding [ Hardy and Finch , ], growth fault bend folding [ Benesh et al ., ], fault propagation folding [ Finch et al ., ; Hardy and Finch , , ], and syn‐tectonic sedimentation [ Carmona et al ., ].…”