Numerical investigation of deformation mechanics in fold-and-thrust belts: Influence of rheology of single and multiple décollements

[1] Thin-skinned fold-and-thrust belts related to convergence tectonics develop by scraping off a rock sequence along a weaker basal decollement often formed by water-saturated shale layers or low-viscosity salt horizons. A two-dimensional finite element model with a viscoelastoplastic rheology is used to investigate the structural evolution of fold-and-thrust belts overlying different types of decollements. In addition, the influence of multiple weak layers in the stratigraphic column is studied. Model shale decollements are frictional, with lower friction angles as the cover sequence. Model salt layers behave linear viscous, due to a lower viscosity as the cover sequence, or with a power …