ARE CHAD LINEAMENTS DEFORMING THE SAHARAN METACRATON?

We are studying deformation trends in Ouaddaï region, Chad, which is found in the heart of the ~5,000,000 km² Saharan Metacraton. Chad lineaments are deformations effected the middle of cold and stable lithosphere beneath Saharan Metacraton. Ediacaran period of the Precambrian age is the given age of this part of the metacraton based on geochronological data obtained from granitoids. Studying the Chad lineaments will make a significant contribution to the Saharan Metacraton understanding. Combining and analyzing satellite gravity data with optical and radar remote sensing data helps us define different structural trends, styles, and relative age relationship. Up to now, we used different digitally- enhanced satellite optical and radar remote sensing data to understand these lineaments and their context in the evolution of the Saharan metacraton. We also plan to use satellite gravity data in the future. We aim to define the manifestation of these lineaments in the optical, radar remote sensing data, in combination with the satellite gravity data and comparing them with the general structural history of the Saharan Metacraton. Our primarily findings indicate that there are apparent brittle deformations with a general trend fluctuating between N-S, E-W and NNE-SSW direction. In addition, we found circular structures that are aligned in the NNE-SSW direction of the Chad lineaments, and we interpreted these circular structures as igneous ring complexes that might have used the weak lithospheric zone presented by the Chad lineament to intrude into the upper crust. Our challenge is to define the relative chronological history of these lineaments and interpret this history within the regional context of the Saharan Metacraton concept. We have explored several primarily thoughts about the nature of these lineaments. This study is a forward step into a more clearance understanding of the Saharan Metacraton tectonic history. Understanding the Saharan Metacraton tectonic history and its relationship with the Chad lineaments is importation for understanding the formation and destruction of cratons.