Rate-and-state modeling of injection-induced aseismic slip in the
Delaware Basin constrains fault-zone pore pressure changes
Abstract
Recent inversions of InSAR ground surface deformation in the Delaware
Basin have revealed aseismic slip on conjugate, semi-optimally oriented
normal faults. Slip, occurring over 3-5 years, extends approximately 1
km down-dip, over 10 km along strike, and reaches 23 cm. Several
disposal wells are located nearby, suggesting that pressure changes from
injection might have induced slip. We develop and calibrate 2D and
pseudo-3D coupled pore pressure diffusion and rate-state models with
velocity-strengthening friction. Pore pressure diffusion is limited to a
high-permeability fault damage zone, and the net influx of fluid is
adjusted to match the observed slip. A pressure increase of 1-2 MPa is
required to initiate slip. Most aseismic slip occurs at approximately
constant friction and ~5 MPa additional pressure
increase is needed to reach ~20 cm slip. Our work
suggests that models of the type developed here can be used to
operationally manage injection-induced aseismic slip.