Numerical models of plate tectonics, mantle convection and slab dynamics with evolving faults

  • Moresi, Louis (Primary Chief Investigator (PCI))
  • Muhlhaus, Hans (Chief Investigator (CI))
  • Zhong, Shijie (Partner Investigator (PI))

Project: Research

Project Details

Project Description

A practical geological simulation capability will emerge from the development of a versatile 3D treatment of geologically realistic evolving faults embedded within the lithosphere.
Faults will be treated as singularities within our lagrangian intergration point FEM allowing us to track fault formation and propagation at high resolution in the lithosphere as it moves in tune with mantle convection.
We will study the dynamics of subduction slabs within the mantle circulation to understand the force balances on lithospheric plates. We will include the influence of fault properties, viscous and elastic stresses in the plate, metatable phases in the slab and the effects of grain-size evolution.
StatusFinished
Effective start/end date1/01/0331/12/05

Funding

  • Australian Research Council (ARC): A$300,000.00
  • Monash University