Preconditioning of sediment failure by astronomically paced weak-layer deposition

Xingxing Wang, Vittorio Maselli, Luca Flessati, Hongbin Wang, Zhilei Sun, Qing Wang, Jie Chen, Qing Li, Stefano Alberti, Markus Kienast, Shucheng Xie and Qiliang Sun ()
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Xingxing Wang: China University of Geosciences
Vittorio Maselli: University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
Luca Flessati: Delft University of Technology
Hongbin Wang: Qingdao Institute of Marine Geology
Zhilei Sun: Qingdao Institute of Marine Geology
Qing Wang: China University of Geosciences
Jie Chen: China University of Petroleum (East China)
Qing Li: Qingdao Institute of Marine Geology
Stefano Alberti: Oregon State University
Markus Kienast: Dalhousie University
Shucheng Xie: China University of Geosciences
Qiliang Sun: China University of Geosciences

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract Low-strength sediment layers within continental slope strata precondition submarine sediment for failure, potentially leading to destructive tsunamis. Using geophysical and Ocean Drilling Program well data, here we show that the glide planes of widespread submarine failures in the northern South China Sea, dated to the glacial stages following the Mid-Pleistocene Transition, have higher opal content, particle size, and porosity, which reduce the undrained shear strength. Cyclic weak-layer deposition, modulated at Milankovitch time scale, was controlled by increased ocean primary productivity and sedimentation rates linked to high-amplitude sea-level fluctuations and intensified winter monsoons. This study represents an important step forward for understanding how climate influences the formation of weak layers and the stability of continental slope globally.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-62493-4

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