Kinematic Evolution of aTranscurrent Fault Propagating Through Consecutive Volcanic Cones:a Case of Rheology and Separation

Abstract: The main objective of this work is to test the effect of two conical-shaped positive topographic obstacleson propagation of a discrete basement dextral strike-slip or transcurrent fault. A set of sandbox analogue (physical) models was constructed, in which two consecutive sand cones were placed progressivelycloser to each other. Key structural and strain parameters, such axial strain ratios and angular strain, aswell as the width and direction of the basins which formed during deformation were measured and analyzed. This procedure was then repeated with a basal decoupling layer of PDMS beneath each cone,to test the influence of this layer on the deformation.The results show that, for models without a basal decoupling layer, the distance between the two cones governs the end-stage deformation patterns of the topographic obstacles. The proximity of the topographic obstacles causes an increase of their deformation, i.e., results in higher axial strain ratios and angular strain. This effect is particularly noticeable in the first obstacle, which is affected by a strong clockwise rotation. The basal ductile which partly decouples the basement fault from the cover units nullifies the previous effect (the increase in deformation caused by proximity) and, when present, localizes the deformation by not only producing narrower pull-apart basins within the obstacles but alsoby increasing their rotation.