Modeling simulation of deformation in a blocky geomedium during origination of earthquake

Abstract

The paper focuses on two models of an earthquake-the dilatancy model and the consolidation and stick-slip model. Experimental basis for the research was measurements of stress-strain state in a granular medium with a movable plate that simulated edges and surfaces of a tectonic fault. The dilatancy model showed the lift of the granular material and the respective accumulation of potential energy. The second model showed that a share of the accumulated energy is elastic energy produced in a blocky medium due to sliding resistance on the surface of faults. The curves of shear stresses and displacements, obtained in soft loading of the plate, showed the stick-slip mechanism with displacement discontinuities and partial drops of stresses. The maximum displacement discontinuity and the highest dynamics on the curves correspond to the maximum value of the accumulated elastic energy which is then released on the descending branch of the curve.