Geo-Informatics Technology for Comparing Surface Deformation on Salt Dome and Salt Basin Structure in Chaiyaphum, Thailand

Patcharin Suphakdee; Urawan Chanket

Authors

Patcharin Suphakdee Geo-Informatics Program, College of Computing, Khon Kaen University, Thailand; Department of Mineral Resources, Thailand
Urawan Chanket Geo-Informatics Program, College of Computing, Khon Kaen University, Thailand

Keywords:

InSAR, rock salt, salt tectonic, geo-informatics, surface deformation, Thailand

Abstract

The northeastern region of Thailand is characterized by a prominent topographic feature known as the Korat Plateau, which is composed of the Korat Basin and the Sakon Nakhon Basin. The general geology of the upper part of the Korat Basin is notably characterized by the Maha Sarakham Formation, which is primarily composed of evaporite minerals such as halite, potash, gypsum, and anhydrite. These evaporite deposits, particularly rock salt, exhibited plastic behavior and could flow under pressure, leading to deformation and displacement of their layers. This movement resulted in the formation of various halokinetic structures. Therefore, this study investigated rock salt deformation within different parts of the sedimentary basin and compared ground displacement across areas with distinct rock salt structures in Chaiyaphum Province. The objective was to gain insights into the natural mechanisms of rock salt deformation and their influence on topography, environmental impacts, and resource management. The research incorporated extensive subsurface datasets integrated with surface deformation rates derived from InSAR time-series analysis using Sentinel-1 imagery from 2015 to 2024. The results revealed a clear contrast in surface deformation rates between areas overlying salt domes and those over salt basins. Areas above salt dome structures exhibited deformation rates ranging from -4.18 to +7.05 mm/year. The maximum uplift was observed in Ban Chuan, Ban Chuan Subdistrict, in the northeastern part of Bamnet Narong District. On the order hand, areas overlying salt basin structures showed deformation rates between -6.43 and +5.13 mm/year, with the greatest subsidence occurring in the Ban Nong Yai But floodplain, Hua Thale Subdistrict, Bamnet Narong District. These deformation patterns were closely associated with variations in geological structure, sediment type, and topographic characteristics. This integrated analysis provided detailed insights into the relationship between subsurface salt structures and surface deformation, offering valuable information for spatial planning and sustainable environmental management.

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