Fluid-injection-induced earthquakes characterized by hybrid-frequency waveforms manifest the transition from aseismic to seismic slip

Hongyu Yu (), Rebecca M. Harrington, Honn Kao (), Yajing Liu and Bei Wang
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Hongyu Yu: Geological Survey of Canada
Rebecca M. Harrington: Ruhr-Universität Bochum
Honn Kao: Geological Survey of Canada
Yajing Liu: McGill University
Bei Wang: Geological Survey of Canada

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Aseismic slip loading has recently been proposed as a complementary mechanism to induce moderate-sized earthquakes located within a few kilometers of the wellbore over the timescales of hydraulic stimulation. However, aseismic slip signals linked to injection-induced earthquakes remain largely undocumented to date. Here we report a new type of earthquake characterized by hybrid-frequency waveforms (EHWs). Distinguishing features from typical induced earthquakes include broader P and S-pulses and relatively lower-frequency coda content. Both features may be causally related to lower corner frequencies, implying longer source durations, thus, either slower rupture speeds, lower stress drop values, or a combination of both. The source characteristics of EHWs are identical to those of low-frequency earthquakes widely documented in plate boundary fault transition zones. The distribution of EHWs further suggests a possible role of aseismic slip in fault loading. EHWs could thus represent the manifestation of slow rupture transitioning from aseismic to seismic slip.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26961-x

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