InFocus

An Integrated Approach to Estimating Fault Slip Occurrence

'With this research we expect to lay the basis for a system that has a large potential to improve forecasting of earthquakes caused by natural gas extraction. These tests will also give us more insights into whether forecasting of natural earthquakes could be improved.'

Gas production can lead to fault slip in the subsurface, which can result in earthquakes. By combining measurements of fault slip in a laboratory with realistic physical models of fault behaviour, we can refine its properties and variables. This allows to better understand the processes at the fault’s interface.

The aim is to provide probabilistic estimates of fault slip occurrence. This research will provide a decision-making tool that through considering different gas-production scenarios will help to minimize the effects of earthquakes for society.

dr Y. van Dinther, UU

dr A. Niemeijer, UU