Plio-Quaternary geology of L’Aquila – Scoppito Basin (Central Italy)

Abstract

We present a geological map at 1:25,000 scale of the Plio-Quaternary L’Aquila-Scoppito intermontane basin (central Italy), which corresponds to the epicentral area of the 6th April 2009 L’Aquila earthquake (Mw: 6.29). The map is derived from geological field surveys at 1:5000 scale and takes into account previously published maps. It is supported by a fine-scale LiDAR digital elevation model, paleontological analyses, 14C dating, well log analyses of deep boreholes, and geophysical data interpretation. By taking into account that the remarkable historical and present-day seismicity of the area is the result of its Plio-Quaternary geological evolution, the aim of this study is to produce a fine-scale geological map of the study area through a comprehensive analysis of the occurring Plio-Quaternary synthems and the tectonic processes that are taking place within it.

Keywords

• Intermontane basin
• Plio-Quaternary stratigraphy
• facies analysis
• central Italy