Along-Dip Segmentation of the Slip Behavior and Rheology of the Copiapo Ridge Subducted in North-Central Chile

We studied the along-dip influence of the Copiapo ridge subduction in the Atacama region, North-Central Chile by building a new seismicity catalog, including similar events and non-volcanic tremors (NVTs). We also obtained a 3-D tomographic model for P and S-waves velocity (and the implied Vp/Vs ratio). We identify along-dip segmentation involving four distinct segments: a locked seismogenic zone hosting ordinary seismicity and clusters of similar events; a transition zone with NVTs and low seismicity; an aseismic zone with slow-slip events; and a deep zone with abundant intraslab seismicity. The velocity models show differences among these zones, with low velocity anomalies of Vp and Vs coinciding with aseismic slip zones, indicating the possible presence of fluids. Due to the spatial distribution along-strike and along-dip of the aseismic zones, we propose that these differences in seismogenic behavior are generated by subduction of the heterogeneous seamounts associated with the Copiapo ridge.

Automated summary

The along-dip influence of the Copiapo ridge subduction in the Atacama region, North-Central Chile was studied by analyzing a new seismicity catalog and obtaining a 3-D tomographic model. Four distinct segments were identified along the dip, with variations in velocity models indicating the presence of fluids coinciding with aseismic slip zones. These differences in seismogenic behavior are believed to be generated by the subduction of heterogeneous seamounts associated with the Copiapo ridge.