Reconstructing Danxia Landscape Evolution: A Broad-Scope Multiconstrained Methodology

Three-dimensional (3D) geological restoration modelling is crucial in fields such as palaeogeomorphological reconstruction, geological resource exploration and development, and subsurface environmental studies, making it significant focus in the geosciences. However, existing research relies primarily on two-dimensional profile analysis, with limited integration of the surface geomorphology and subsurface environments. This study proposes a multiconstrained deformation field approach for 3D geological restoration modelling that incorporates diverse environmental impact factors, including geomorphic erosion, sedimentary environments, stratigraphic deformation, stress conditions, and porosity. This method facilitates the integration of surface and subsurface geological information and enables the simulation of 3D spatial geological evolution and temporal geological analyses. This study applied this methodology to the Danxiashan area of Guangdong Province and conducted restoration on real-world data. The results indicated that the development of the Danxia Basin is governed by external forces such as weathering, rainwater, gravity and flowing water, with distinct dominant processes at different stages of development. The findings reveal that the core landform area of the Danxia Basin is in the late maturity stage, whereas the basin as a whole is transitioning from late maturity to early old age, marking a key phase in its geomorphological evolution.