Seismic Tomography of Ecuador

This research project focuses on improving the understanding of the subduction of the Nazca plate beneath the South American plate, specifically investigating a low-velocity zone suggesting longitudinal bending. The problem addressed is the need for greater detail in defining this geological phenomenon, which is tackled by incorporating additional seismic data. The methodological solution involves integrating P-wave and S-wave travel time data from the Peruvian National Seismic Network (RSN) for the years 1998 and 2010-2016 with existing data from Ecuador. The process includes selecting and filtering records from Peruvian stations within 7.8 degrees south latitude, merging data (using the MERGE program), filtering based on the number of phases, and applying corrections. The Wadatti diagram is utilized for event quality control. Finally, seismic tomography is applied, and model regularization tests are performed to generate clear tomographic images. A secondary theoretical component addresses the inverse problem using a model inspired by ferromagnetism (Ising model) to calculate the correlation length within the inversion mesh.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>The main objective is to perform seismic tomography using data from the Peruvian National Seismic Network (RSN) from the years 1998 and 2010-2016 to obtain a better definition of the longitudinal bending of the Nazca plate beneath the South American plate, complementing previous studies conducted in the Ecuador region.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Analysis, development and improvement of materials, tools and techniques for use in construction, industry and various applications