MECHANICAL ASPECTS OF SEDIMENTARY BASIN FORMATION - DEVELOPMENT OF INTEGRATED MODELS FOR LITHOSPHERIC AND SURFACE PROCESSES

Different assumptions for the thermo-mechanical properties of the lith osphere strongly affect predictions inferred from quantitative sedimen tary basin modeling. Examples from various basins, selected as natural laboratories, illustrate the importance of incorporating a finite str ength of the extending lithosphere in forward stratigraphic modeling o f large-scale basin stratigraphy. Current models can effectively coupl e erosion at uplifted rift shoulders of extensional basins with the ba sin fill architecture of the subsiding basin compartments. Modeling of the synrift strata integrates spatial scales characteristic for subba sins, such as the Oseberg field in the North Sea, with large-scale lit hospheric properties characterizing the bulk strength of extending lit hosphere. Modeling of compressional basins in foreland fold-and-thrust -belt settings can effectively link lithospheric flexure with surface processes. Scales pertinent to short-term spatial and temporal variati ons in basin fill and basin deformation can now be addressed, allowing the quantitative investigation of consequences of different modes of thrusting for basin fill geometry and facies characteristics.