Integrated remote sensing data utilization for investigating structural and tectonic history of the Ghadames Basin, Libya

This study was initiated to constrain the geological structure of the Ghadames Basin in northwest Libya. Detailed analysis was based on digital integration of surface data, including SRTM DEM, ETM+ and geologic maps with subsurface data, including well logs and potential field data. Integrated analysis of remotely sensed data of the SRTM and ETM+ were utilized to identify geologic lineaments in the area. Ground-based verification of the remote sensing data was achieved with field work. Interpretation and analysis of the lineaments indicate that the Ghadames Basin is controlled by four main fault systems that trend WNW, NNW, NW and ENE. Well logs and potential field data were used to delineate a detailed picture of the subsurface structure. The potential field data reveal two NE and NNE trending sedimentary basins. The depth of the basement inside the main basin ranges from 2 to 6 km. A two-dimensional (2-D) schematic model shows that the basin gradually deepens towards the southwest. The applied data integration gave new insight into the tectonic and structure patterns of the Ghadames Basin and the adjacent areas of northwest Libya.

► Four main fault trends (WNW, NNW, NW and ENE) characterize the study area.
► The Ghadames Basin contains two basins separated from each other: the main basin trends NE, and the small sub-basin trends NNE.
► The high magnetic anomaly that separates the two basins is unknown tectonic uplift.
► The two dimensional forward modeling showed that the main basin gradually deepens toward the SW.
► The Ghadames Basin was active at several stages and associated with series of tectonic events caused complex faults system.