2D Numerical Modelling for Understanding Crustal Deformations at Convergent Plate Margins

Abstract

Continental subduction and collision normally follows oceanic subduction leading to enormous crustal deformations. For understanding this mechanism oftectonic plates in collision area, which may propagate into the subductioncollision transition zone is of great interest. At the locations of high-pressure metamorphism, some places form huge crustal deformations like between Indian-Eurasian plates, and subduction at other places like Indian-Burmese plates. In either of the casesdeformation is a continuous, dynamic process. To understand the process, a study has been carried out using two dimensional finite element modeling. With the current availability of computing technology, advanced numerical techniques and material models it would be an easy task to know the parameters effecting the transition from collision to subduction process between different tectonic plates. In this paper, simpleinclined models are used to study subduction-collision transition zone. Elastic material rheology is considered for all the tectonic plates and contact analysis is used for the tectonic plate interfaces for the implementation of weak zones. Parameters consideredfor this study are geometry of plates, friction at the interface and length of the plates. This study concludes that vertical surface displacements are largely effected by the considered parameters.