Transform plate boundaries is an intrinsic characteristic of terrestrial plate tectonics, since three-dimensionality of mantle convection requires strike-slip deformation to accommodate toroidal component of the surface motions. Transforms faults also played a crucial role in the development of the plate tectonics theory. The new class of faults described in the Wilson’s (1965) seminal paper were the last piece of the puzzle that connected ridges to orogenic belts, closing the circumference of plates. The transform boundaries are subdivided in two major classes – continental and oceanic – characterized by markedly different tectonic position, surface expression, dynamics, seismicity, and deep structure. Intraplate strike-slip faults have been studied in many and varied tectonics contexts. These conservative regions are generally associated with low to moderate magnitude seismicity. Over the last years several events have shown that this structures are capable of generating very high magnitude hazardous events. Examples are the 2010 Haiti and the 2011 Christchurch earthquakes. Moreover, the Mw 8.6 Sumatra quake in 2012 inboard the subducting plate was one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded. In this session, we aim to discuss nucleation, development and seismicity of both oceanic and continental transform faults. With cross-disciplinary contributions, we intend to shed light on their origin and evolution and understand their differences and similarities. We welcome observational studies on strike-slip and transform faults (including structural geology, remote sensing, tectonics and seismology) as well as modelling studies, both analogue and numerical. Associated processes such as shear localization, serpentinisation, fluid migration and extrusion are also very welcome.

Solicited poster: Dr. Tim Dooley
(Bureau of Economic Geology, University of Texas at Austin)
Tentative title: Basement-driven strike-slip deformation involving a salt-stock canopy system