The crustal deformation mechanism of southern Chuandian block: constrained by S wave velocity and its azimuthal anisotropy

We construct the 3D Shear wave velocity and azimuthal anisotropy images in the southern Chuandian block using phase velocity dispersion of Rayleigh wave in the period of 5–45 s. The images show two extensive low-velocity zones with a depth range of 20–40 km. The west range of the low-velocity extends from the Lijiang-Xiaojinhe fault to the Red River fault, while its east range follows along the Xiaojiang fault. Two ranges of low velocities are merged at the southern inner belt of the Emeishan Large Igneous Provinces (ELIP). The observed fast directions of azimuthal anisotropy are consistent with the extension of low-velocity ranges at the lower crust. The findings reveal the presence of two potential weak channels in the lower crust, characterized by low-velocity zones, which align with the hypothesis of lower crustal flow. Meanwhile, the crust around the inner belt of ELIP exhibits a high-velocity body characterized by a northeast-trending and counter-clockwise azimuthal anisotropy. Combined with geological data, we attribute the high S-velocity to a mafic–ultramafic magma reservoir of the ELIP, which blocks the continuity of crustal flow within the southern Chuandian block, thus dividing the lower crustal flow into two branches. Additionally, we also find the fast directions of azimuthal anisotropy above 20 km align well with the strike-slip fault orientations. The above research results indicate that the crustal deformation in the southern Chuandian block is likely attributed to the joint action of the two deformation mechanisms. One involves a lower crustal flow model, while the other entails rigid extrusion controlled by the deep-seated, large-scale strike-slip faults in the upper crust.