Subsurface characterization of quaternary scarps and their possible connection to main structures of the western margin of Precordillera, San Juan, Argentina

Abstract

The El Tigre fault provides a significant example of Pliocene-Quaternary tectonic activity at the West of Precordillera, receiving considerable attention in the last years. However, longitudinal thrusts of the nearest Sierra del Tigre and a minor piedmont deformation belt identified in its western piedmont are still poorly understood. The present work comprised a detailed map of the geomorphological features of tectonic origin and Quaternary alluvial fan terraces located between the Sierra del Tigre and the El Tigre fault. Several topographic and geoelectrical profiles across minor fault and fold scarps were surveyed to define the displacement scarps, the geological structure geometries at subsurface and their relationship with main structures. Geoelectrical models allowed us to recognize three geoelectrical levels: A (> 200–300 Ω.m) correlated to Pleistocene alluvial fan terraces Q4 and Q3; B (ranging from 50 to 300/450 Ω.m), under level A and correlated to the Neogene substratum (Rodeo Formation); C (< 30–40 Ω.m) intercalated in level B, conforming aquifers (20 and 40 m deep) within the Neogene substratum. Subvertical conductive zones (10–40 Ω.m) were correlated to high angle (~60°-80°) reverse faults, which are associated with open anticlines and synclines that affect the Quaternary levels and the Neogene substratum. The structural style interpreted here allows us to conclude that the main piedmont thrust is a frontal splay of the backthrust of the Sierra del Tigre with western vergence. A better connection to the compressive deformation component, which uplifts the range, instead of to the strike-slip deformation component of the El Tigre Fault is demonstrated. This tectonic propagation probably happens during Middle-Upper Pleistocene to Holocene. The observations show that minor deformation belt is subjected to piedmont compressive movements while the El Tigre Fault absorbs the strike-slip movements, so a local partition of the deformation in the western margin of Precordillera probably happens during Quaternary.