Strain analysis of the Darvazeh Quran fault, Zagros Mountains, Iran

Abstract

The Zagros Fold-and-Thrust Belt is tectonically active and often has active faults with insensible and slow motions. Determining the rate of movement and displacement in these faults requires very precise measurements. One of the measurement methods of fault movements is using geodetic and micro-geodetic studies. This research is focused on one of the active faults in the north of Shiraz city, Fars province called Darvazeh Quran fault in this study. In order to determine the deformation matrix, the local networks are preferred. Deforming area is normally covered by four control points. These points constitute a geodetic network and their location or structure is defined by the topographic and geological parameters. The results show that the obtained displacement vector is from SE to NW with a dextral strike-slip creep. Deformation matrix indicated 4mm±6ppm displacement per year and elongation changes of network have an ascending trend into time.