Inverse and 3D forward gravity modelling for the estimation of the crustal thickness of Egypt

A 3D crustal density model for Egypt was compiled. It is constrained by available deep seismic refraction, receiver functions analysis, borehole, and geological data.

In Egypt, seismic data are sparsely and irregularly distributed. Consequently, we developed the crustal thickness model by integrating seismic and gravity data. Satellite gravity data was inverted to build an initial model, which was followed by a detailed 3D forward gravity modelling. The initial crustal thickness is determined by applying seismically constrained non-linear inversion, based on the modified Bott's method and Tikhonov regularization assuming spherical Earth approximation. Moreover, the gravity inversion-based Moho depth estimates are in good agreement with results of seismic studies and are exploited for the 3D forward modelling.

Crustal thicknesses range from 25 to 30 km along the rifted margins of the Red Sea, which thin toward the Mediterranean Sea. Thicknesses in southern Egypt reach values between 35 and 40 km. A maximum crustal thickness of 45 km is found in the southwestern part of Egypt. Within the Sinai Peninsula, the thickness varies from the shallow southern edge (∼ 31 km) and increases toward the North (∼ 36 km). Our model revealed a thick lower crust beneath the southern part of Egypt, which can be associated with crustal modification that occurred during the collision of East Gondwana and the Saharan Metacraton along the Keraf suture zone during the final assembly of Gondwana in the Neoproterozoic. Finally, the isostatic implications of the differences between the seismic and gravity-derived Mohos are thoroughly discussed.

In conclusion, the developed 3D crustal thickness model provides high-resolution Moho depth estimates that closely resembles the major geological and tectonic features. Also, the existing correlation between the topography, Bouguer anomalies, and Moho depths indicates that the investigated area is close to its isostatic equilibrium.