Deformation and failure mechanisms of deep-seated landslides: insights from Guili-Baige in Jinsha River tectonic belt

Abstract The Jinsha River tectonic mélange belt, marked by complex geological structures and large-scale deep-seated landslides, presents significant challenges in understanding deformation and failure mechanisms. This study focuses on the Guili-Baige section, characterized by deep river incision an...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Changbao Guo, Jixin Liu, Ruian Wu, Yiqiu Yan, Hao Yuan, Zhendong Qiu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2025-08-01
Series:npj Natural Hazards
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s44304-025-00078-3
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Summary:Abstract The Jinsha River tectonic mélange belt, marked by complex geological structures and large-scale deep-seated landslides, presents significant challenges in understanding deformation and failure mechanisms. This study focuses on the Guili-Baige section, characterized by deep river incision and uneven rainfall distribution. Field surveys, remote sensing, UAV photogrammetry, SBAS-InSAR monitoring, mineral composition analysis, SEM, and geotechnical testing were employed to examine deformation characteristics and distribution patterns of large-scale landslides. A thick, continuous sliding zone in the Guili landslide was identified, with a total volume of 6.55 × 107 m3, revealing prone geological structures and progressive failure mechanisms. SBAS-InSAR monitoring indicated creep deformation with localized acceleration, reaching a maximum surface deformation rate of −24.29 mm/yr. Mechanical tests showed that water content significantly reduces soil cohesion in sliding zones. Geological structures, lithology, concentrated rainfall, and strong river erosion was identified as primary deformation controls. These findings enhance understanding of deformation mechanisms in mélange zones globally, emphasizing the impacts of extreme rainfall and erosion events.
ISSN:2948-2100