Horizontal Deformation Rate Analysis Based on Multiepoch GPS Measurements in Shanghai

Abstract

By applying integrated least-squares adjustment of multicampaigns geographic positioning system (GPS) measurements, the velocity of any GPS monument can be obtained. The resulting velocities are used to estimate the strain rate tensors and their variances under infinitesimal strain assumption in a discrete triangle. In this paper, the GPS measurements of five campaigns, which were carried out in Shanghai City from 2002 to 2005, are used to determine the velocity of each GPS monument. Then the horizontal strain rate tensors are calculated with the relative velocities of the sites obtained. The analysis of these principal strain rates together with a comparison of the geological information is performed. The patterns of the principal strain rates show a significant northwest to southeast extension zone in the southwestern part of Shanghai, which agrees well with the neo-tectonic activity of an existing geological fault, the so-called “Dachang–Zhoupu” fault.