Sensitivity of Permeability Changes to Different Earthquakes in a Fault Zone: Possible Evidence of Dependence on the Frequency of Seismic Waves
Xin Liao, Yun Shi, Chunping Liu, Guangcai Wang
Abstract
Abstract Changes in the permeability of a fault zone are dependent upon the frequency of seismic waves, and is an important phenomenon whose mechanisms have not be completely elucidated to date. In this study, the tidal response of water level in well Chuan06 was considered as an indicator of the permeability of the fault zone, and the sensitivity of permeability changes to earthquakes with different epicentral distances were investigated. The results suggested that the permeability change induced by seismic waves is frequency dependent. In addition, based on the mechanisms of permeability changes induced by the seismic waves, the difference in sensitivity may be attributed to the different sizes of the fractures in the fault zone. These findings are likely to contribute to an understanding of hydrogeological responses and seismic activity induced by the earthquakes.