Millennium Nucleus the Seismic Cycle along Subduction Zones, Cyclo

The largest earthquake on earth have been generated along subduction zones, where an oceanic plate slides below a continent. The seismic cycle associated with such subduction zones is a relatively repetitive process, with slow accumulation of energy during decades to centuries, and its sudden release by a great earthquake. However, our knowledge of the physics of the seismic cycle is limited and insufficient to properly assess the seismic potential along these convergent plate margins. In this context, CYCLO seeks to answer three fundamental questions: What are the periods of recurrence of large earthquakes in a particular segment of the Chilean margin? How persistent are the segments limits of large earthquakes? What is the response of the upper plate to the interplate seismic cycle? Chile and foreign researchers from the CYCLO Nucleus hope to gain insight into the physics of the seismic cycle and develop new models to help in the assessment of hazards caused by earthquakes and tsunamis along Chile.

The aim of our Nucleus is to quantify deformation processes associated with the seismic cycle along the Chilean margin, in order to explore the mechanisms responsible for large earthquakes and, to develop probabilistic hazard models. These results will help institutions and companies in local specific models to evaluate the risk associated with future earthquakes and tsunamis in Chile.