True 3D Trishear: a kinematic model for strike-slip and oblique-slip deformation

CRISTALLINI, E., GIAMBIAGI, L. Y ALLMENDINGER, R.

GEOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA BULLETIN

Geological Society of America

Año: 2004 vol. 116 p. 938 - 952

0016-7606

A 3D-trishear algorithm is presented specially designed to analyze oblique and strike-slip fault systems. The equations, based on volume conservation during deformation, are implemented in a computer program where changes of trishear parameters can be made along the strike of the principal fault. Strain ellipsoids predictions can be made in any 3D position of the model.  A simple explanation for natural helicoidal faults and fractures related to flower structures was found analyzing a basic case of strike slip deformation using 3D-trishear. 3D-trishear results were successfully compared to some natural examples and analogue models founding strong similarities between them.