The Analysis of Seismic Potential Posed by Blind Faults

The release of seismic moment represented by slip rates on faults is characterized by increasing stability over progressively long time periods. In cases where the faults are blind and the tip lines do not reach the surface, one can concentrate on the shallow deformation features that form as a result of slip on the underlying fault. The analyses of the geometry and evolution of young, shallow growth structures can help us to decipher the previously unknown paleo-earthquake history of the regional faults, providing the basis for effective seismic hazard analysis. In order to understand the paleo-earthquake history and structural evolution of blind-thrust faults and their associated folds, a multi-disciplinary methodology can be applied to link blind faulting at seismogenic depths directly to near surface fault-related folding. This multi-disciplinary approach should combine various sources of data such as high-resolution seismic reflection profiles, borehole excavations, geophysical and paleoseismological data in order to analyze the near-surface fault-related folding related to the blind faulting of the hidden faults at seismogenic depths. A complete catalogue integrating reliable estimates of slip rate values, containing data concerning individual blind faults can be helpful to have an extended point of view in seismic hazard assessment.