Finite strain analysis of the Zhangbaling metamorphic belt, SE China - Crustal thinning in transpression

► Finite strain analysis, SPO analysis, and forward strain modeling are performed. ► The deformation of the ductile-brittle transition zone is flattening to plane-strain dominated. ► The deformation of the Zhangbaling schist is monoclinic. ► The ductile and ductile-brittle crust experienced 18-36% and 18-30% thinning. ► The minimum thickness of this midcrustal section is of ∼7.5 km.