Seismic evidence for high pore pressures in the oceanic crust: Implications for fluid-related embrittlement

We estimated the P wave velocity structure of the crust of the subducting Pacific plate beneath northeast Japan using arrival time data of P-to-S-converted waves. The results show that the P wave velocity of the subducting crust varies along the arc and increases abruptly at a depth of ∼100 km, from 6.5-7.0 km/s in the fore arc to 7.5-8.5 km/s in the back arc. The P wave velocity in the fore arc is ∼10% lower than theoretically expected values for the metamorphosed mid-ocean ridge basalt material. Seismicity in the subducting crust is most active at depths of 70-80 km where P wave velocities are lowest. The marked reduction of P wave velocity suggests the coexistence of aqueous fluids with hydrous minerals. Abundant fluids elevate pore fluid pressures and reduce effective normal stress, promoting intensive seismic activity in the low-velocity crust. Our observations provide seismic evidence that earthquakes in the subducting crust are facilitated by fluid-related embrittlement.