Validation of a Multilayered Analog Model Integrating Crust‐Mantle Visco‐Elastic Coupling to Investigate Subduction Megathrust Earthquake Cycle

We have developed a scaled analog model of subduction zone simulating seismic cycle deformation phases. Its rheology is based on multilayered visco-elasto-plastic materials to account for the mechanical behavior continental lithospheric plate overriding subducting oceanic plate. The seismogenic displays unstable slip behavior, extending at depth into weak interface with stable properties. succeeds in reproducing interseismic phases interrupted by coseismic ruptures and followed after-slip. experimental data catalog shows broad variability events from aseismic slow slips fast dynamic lab quakes. Results also show occurrence both isolated precursory slow-slip arising before mainshocks. Given absence fluids model, event velocity can be attributed fault roughness complexity. induces key visco-elastic coupling between elastic mantle wedge allowing, first time, reproduce experimentally realistic postseismic relaxation phase. Preliminary results reveal that tectonic loading rate modulates this coupling. A low weakens it, which increase amount storable deformation, favors large megathrust events. high strengthens minimize accumulation slip-event sizes, promote creep. This new scaled-analog complementary tool investigate earthquake mechanics improve interpretation geodetic seismological records.