Three-dimensional kinematic and flexural basin modeling

Main features:

The 3-D extensional or compressional kinematic displacements across one or multiple faults (listric or planar) are specified in the kinematic model. The surface plan of the fault trace is assumed to a half-gaussian shape. In doing so, the fault trace has curvature and offset. The distribution of extension/ shortening across the fault is also assumed to be normally distributed, being characterized by maximum heave across the fault defined at the "mean" position and the variance describing the distribution of extension/shortening along the fault.

Basin subsidence and rift flank uplift/thrust-generated topography (basin architecture) are calculated as a function of time.

Crustal extension/shortening in the hangingwall/footwall blocks can be incorporated.

Inclusion of depth-dependent extension/compression partitioning due to the effect(s) of intracrustal detachments.

Inclusion of inversion events using the kinematics of crustal and lithospheric mantle extension/shortening within the hangingwall and footwall blocks.

Basin fill with compacting sediments is included. The compaction characteristics are spatially variable.

Erosion of emergent and submarine topography (producing peneplains and deep-sea unconformities).

Eustatic curves can be included (e.g., the long-term eustatic fall since the late Cretaceous).

Flexural isostasy is employed throughout the calculations, during both the syn-tectonic and post-tectonic development. The effective elastic thickness of the lithosphere is determined as the depth to a particular isotherm (nominally 450^o C) or a user-defined constant. In general, the effective elastic thickness is a function of space and time.

Profiles of the time-line stratigraphy and basin architecture (rift-onset unconformity) at any time during its evolution (i.e. both during and after the tectonic event).

Important parameters such as the gravity effect and heat flow can be predicted as functions of space and time.