Geoelectrical Models of Fault Zones in the Gorny Altai Region

Abstract

The article reviews structurally-complex areas with presence of fault zones in the territory of large depressions (Chuya and Kuray) of the Gorny Altai. The research was carried out in the aftershock period of the destructive Chuya earthquake in 2003, in an area with high seismic activity. Determining the structure and location of zones of fracture disturbances, concealed by loose sediments, causes certain difficulties. In such case, it is necessary to involve several electromagnetic methods. A measurement and interpretation method is proposed for designing geoelectrical models of faults, including those concealed by loose sediments. A complex of methods of different depth is involved (transient electromagnetic method, vertical electrical sounding, electrical resistivity tomography) for measurements. Interpretation is carried out by means of modelling software and inversion systems, 2D and 3D software. Depth and near-surface models of fault zones are designed. The characteristics of these models are relevant for identifying seismogenic faults, geodynamic and predictive problems.