Role of fluids in faulting inferred from stress field signatures.

Hardebeck, JL; Hauksson, E · Science · 1999

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The stress orientation signature of weak faults containing high-pressure fluids has been observed for segments of the San Andreas fault system in southern California. The inferred lithostatic fluid pressures extend into the surrounding relatively intact rock in a zone scaling with the width of the interseismic strain accumulation. Repeated strain-related fracturing and crack sealing may have created low-permeability barriers that seal fluids into the network of currently active fractures.