Geometry and origin of large‐scale deformation structures in some ancient wind‐blown sand deposits

Large‐scale deformational features that disrupt the cross‐bedded strata of some ancient wind‐blown dune sand deposits (Jurassic Aztec and Navajo Sandstones, U.S.A.) can betraced laterally for at least tens of metres. Information from four exposures leads to an idealized deformation style characterized by (1) a ‘head’ portion marked by collapse features, (2) a middle portion marked by a thrust ramp or a large recumbent fold, and (3) a ‘toe’ portion marked by a planar shear zone with small recumbent folds, drag folds, and possibly small horizontal shear faults. An hypothesis involving earthquake‐induced liquefaction and collapse of the dunes is proposed. Sands liquefied during earthquakes cannot support an unequal surface load, resulting in the collapse of surface dunes above the liquefied substrate. Compensatory lateral squeezing of liquefied sand and buried strata produces the shear zone in the ‘toe’ portion. Engineering studies suggest that buried strata underlying interdunal lows, where over‐burden stress is least, will be most susceptible to liquefaction. Other considerations suggest that it will be the steeper lee sides of advancing surface dunes that collapse, squeezing liquefied sand forward or downwind, i.e. away from the lee slope of surface dunes. If the liquefied condition persists, load structures can be formed when unliquefied layers founder into the liquefied substrate.