3D crustal stress state of Germany according to a data-calibrated geomechanical model

Abstract. The contemporary stress state in the upper crust is of great interest for geotechnical applications and basic research alike. However, our knowledge crustal field from data perspective limited. For Germany basically two datasets are available: orientations maximum horizontal (SHmax) regime as part World Stress Map (WSM) database well a complementary compilation magnitude adjacent regions. these only provide pointwise, incomplete heterogeneous information 3D tensor. Here, we present geomechanical–numerical model that provides continuous description on regional scale Germany. covers an area about 1000×1250 km2 extends to depth 100 km containing seven units, with specific material properties (density elastic rock properties) laterally varying thicknesses: sedimentary unit, four different units crust, lower lithospheric mantle. calibrated by achieve best-fit regarding SHmax minimum magnitudes (Shmin). modeled almost entirely within uncertainties WSM used Shmin fit various well. Only show locally significant deviations, primarily indicating values too low model. open further refinements geometry, e.g., additional layers properties, incorporation future measurements. In addition, it can initial local geomechanical models higher resolution.