Fault trace parameters as a tool for analysing remotely sensed fault arrays: An example from the eastern Gulf of Corinth,Greece

Data from a remotely sensed fault trace map were sampled using circular scanlines/windows to obtain values of three fault trace parameters: the trace intensity (I), the trace density (ρ) and the mean trace length (μ). The spatial distribution and the interrelation of these trace parameters were then investigated. The constructed contour maps showing the spatial distribution of μ and I are characterized by elongated contours which follow the trend of fault traces individualizing ENE- and WNW-striking fault zones. These zones have lengths ranging between 5 and 20 km and show a good correlation with the current seismicity. Analysis of diagrams showing the variation of I and ρ in respect to μ revealed two major patterns for the arrangements of fault arrays in the area: (a) domains with well-aligned and closely spaced faults are characterized by nearly constant I-values and reduced ρ-values as μ increases; and (b) domains with randomly distributed faults are characterized by increased I-values and nearly constant ρ-values as μ increases. The I, ρ versus μ diagrams for domains where both patterns coexist are also useful for understanding interaction of faults. On such diagrams, the transitional point between the two proposed patterns corresponds to the maximum critical mean fault trace length (μ) value that is required for the onset of the fault linkage process within a fault array.