A reproducible workflow for 3D finite-element modeling of strike-slip duplex deformation in Abaqus

Publication date

2026-06

Authors

Khalifeh-Soltani, Anis
Alavi, Seyed Ahmad
Derakhshani, RezaORCID 0000-0001-7499-4384ISNI 0000000512522591

Editors

Advisors

Supervisors

Document Type

Article
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License

cc_by

Abstract

This article presents a fully reproducible workflow for three-dimensional finite-element modeling of deformation in contractional and extensional strike-slip duplexes subjected to variable convergence angles. The method is implemented in Abaqus and provides a standardized procedure for constructing model geometries, assigning elastic–plastic rheology, defining frictional fault interactions, and applying displacement boundary conditions representative of oblique strike-slip motion. The workflow enables systematic variation of the convergence angle while preserving geometric and mechanical similarity across models, allowing users to generate directly comparable stress, strain, and displacement fields. All model input data, output datasets, and visualization scripts are supplied in an open repository to ensure full transparency, reproducibility, and adaptability to other tectonic settings. This methodological framework can be readily integrated into broader geomechanical, structural, or seismotectonic investigations requiring controlled numerical experiments on strike-slip fault systems. • Provides a standardized and reproducible 3D finite-element workflow for modeling deformation in strike-slip duplex systems. • Enables systematic variation of convergence angle while maintaining consistent geometry, rheology, and boundary conditions. • Includes complete Abaqus input data, documentation, and visualization resources for direct replication and adaptation.

Keywords

Convergence angle, Duplex structures, Fault mechanics, Strike-slip fault, Structural geology, Transpressional tectonics, Transtensional tectonics, General

Citation

Khalifeh-Soltani, A, Alavi, S A & Derakhshani, R 2026, 'A reproducible workflow for 3D finite-element modeling of strike-slip duplex deformation in Abaqus', MethodsX, vol. 16, 103917. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mex.2026.103917