Wrench Faulting
Using Seismic and Landsat
G. Pat Bolden
Two high-multiplicity seismic profiles demonstrate the compressional nature
of the faulting
along the Double Mountain Lineament in northeast Garza County in
the Permian basin. NASA high-altitude aircraft imagery using Landsat parameters
delineate the traces of these faults on the surface. The drainage system also
defines the fault traces by following the zones of fracture and weakness in the
Permian and Triassic outcrops.
A north-south seismic profile crosses the Double Mountain lineament (P
Shear), defining two thrust faults, two high-angle reverse faults and a pop-up
block (flow structure). NASA high-altitude imagery and stream drainage indicate
the traces of these faults. The pattern developed fits the definition of left
lateral wrench faulting
. Overlying carbonate shelf margins are developed above
the underlying structure, which further enhances the structural interpretation.
An east-west seismic profile 3 mi southeast of the north-south profile again
defines the Double Mountain Lineament or P Shear and the associated faulting
. A
1-mi wide pop-up block with a high angle reverse fault on both sides
demonstrates the compressional nature of the
faulting
, and the high-altitude
imagery delineates the surface traces of the faults. This structure has been
drilled with several Stawn and Ellenburger producers, confirming the seismic and
surface interpretations in the subsurface.
AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91038©1987 AAPG Annual Convention, Los Angeles, California, June 7-10, 1987.