Seismic Q model and lithosphere rheology in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau

The eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau is an area with the youngest uplift, strongest deformation, and frequent occurrence of large earthquakes. Seismic velocity can constrain the lithosphere's rheological strength and crustal flow distribution, allowing the deformation to be explored for the crust and upper mantle. However, seismic velocity is related to rock strength and composition and reflects the rock's elastic behavior. As a direct anelastic observation of deep temperature and rheological strength, seismic attenuation can decrease the multiplicity of geodynamic interpretation. We construct a broadband high-resolution attenuation model for the lithosphere in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau by using regional seismic phases propagating in the crust and uppermost mantle. A rheological strength structure was obtained from a seismic attenuation model of the lithosphere. The dynamic origins of the distribution of soft, ductile materials can be investigated. Hence, the tectonic evolution and seismogenic environment under the lithospheric compression and collision can be detected in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U2139206).