Résumé
A combination of non-volcanic tremor and transient slow slip events behaviors is commonly observed at plate interface, between locked/seismogenic zone at low depths and stable/ductile creep zone at larger depths. This association defines Episodic Tremor and Slip, systematically highlighted by over-pressurized fluids and near failure shear stress conditions. Here we propose a new mechanical approach that provides for the first time a mechanical and field-based explanation of the observed association between non-volcanic tremor and slow slip events. In contrast with more classical rate-and-state models, this physical model uses a ductile rheology with grain size sensitivity, fluid-driven microfracturing and sealing (e.g. grain size reduction and grain growth) and related pore fluid pressure fluctuations. We reproduce slow slip events by transient ductile strain localization as a result of fluid-enhanced microfracturing and sealing. Moreover, occurrence of macrofracturing during transient strain localization and local increase in pore fluid pressure well simulate non-volcanic tremor. Our model provides therefore a field-based explanation of episodic tremor and slip and moreover predicts the depth and temperature ranges of their occurrence in subduction zones. It implies furthermore that non-volcanic tremor and slow slip events are physically related.