AbstractThe geometry and kinematic evolution of a frontal ramp section associated with the Tertiary West Spitsbergen Orogenic Belt has been investigated in a small area (Lappdalen) north of Isfjorden. The previously recognized thrust front corresponds to a complex step or ramp in the position of the sole-thrust in the area. The sole-thrust is localized to the evaporites of the Permian Gipshuken Formation to the west of the footwall ramp, whereas to the east it continues as a bedding-parallel thrust in Triassic shales (Sassendalen Group). The area to the west of the footwall ramp is characterized by large scale thrusts and folds involving the Permian Gipshuken and Kapp Starostin formations and the lower part of the Triassic Sassendalen Group. East of the footwall ramp both Permian and Triassic strata are sub-horizontal and apparently undeformed. Three major thrust sheets are recognized. Based on the geometric relationship between folds and faults in the area, both fault-bend and fault-propogation mechanisms of folding are inferred. Restoration of the Kapp Starostin Formation to its pre-deformational state indicates a minimum of 35% shortening. Structural observations within the Sassendalen Group in the study area and on Dickson Land suggest that some of this shortening is transmitted eastwards along one or more bedding parallel thrusts in the Sassendalen Group.
Large-scale simulation of methane hydrate dissociation along the West Spitsbergen Margin