An analysis of Cenozoic tectonic stress fields in the Kuqa depression

The structural deformation and evolution of Kuqa depression is closely related to the development of the South Tianshan Orogen. The late Himalayan period witnessed the most intense tectonic movement in this area, which resulted in a large thrust belt and created the present tectonic framework. By analyzing geological structure and geological settings, the authors differentiated the periods of the stress field indicators, and the indicators of the late Himalayan period show nearly NS-trending compression. The authors also simulated the stress field of the Kuqa depression during the late Himalayan period based on elastic mechanics finite-element method, in consideration of essential structural factors such as geometry of the basin, boundary conditions, and rock mechanics parameters. The result of the simulation indicates that the maximum principal compressive stress of Kuqa depression is in nearly northsouth direction, which fits well with the stress field indicators. This result can be used as the basis for fracture prediction and evaluation and also has application value in exploration and development.