1- , mehdi_na@iasbs.ac.ir
Abstract: (36 Views)
The Zagros collision zone results from convergence between the Arabian and Eurasian plates and trends NW–SE. Within this framework, the Saqqez–Baneh structural zone—part of the northwestern Zagros orogen and the Sanandaj–Sirjan metamorphic–igneous belt—exhibits a NE–SW structural trend, markedly different from the overall Zagros trend. Since the tectonic evolution of this zone is closely linked to the Zagros orogen, its study provides valuable insight into the continental deformation history of the region. Kinematic, geometric, and dynamic analyses have enabled reconstruction of the paleostress field and the orientation of the principal compressional and extensional axes responsible for deformation in the thrust belt. Field observations reveal no clear evidence for vertical-axis rotations or local stress-field perturbations around the thrust zone. The northern and southern sectors—despite their nearly perpendicular trends—represent components of a pre-existing structure formed under a homogeneous stress regime during thrust emplacement. Each segment exhibits its characteristic structural geometry and kinematics depending on its relation to the shear zone. Structural data indicate that while the northern segment functioned as a typical Zagros-style thrust, the southern segment operated as a lateral ramp, parallel to the Saqqez–Baneh trend, accommodating left-lateral oblique-slip motion. This inherited structure facilitated westward propagation of the main thrust front and acted as a transverse element during structural evolution. Thus, the Saqqez–Baneh structural zone—similar to the well-known Muteh–Lahbid transverse trend—demonstrates that tectonic processes associated with the opening and closure of the Neo-Tethys did not fully rework the southwestern margin of the Central Iranian microcontinent.
Keywords: Transverse structures, Main thrust, Sanandaj-Sirjan structural zone, Saqqez-Baneh structural zone, Zagros orogeny.
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