Geodynamics of oblique subduction orogens

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Project objective

This research aims to determine the fundamental controls on deformation styles, fault and strain partitioning in oblique subduction orogens. This multidisciplinary programme will combine field, remote sensing, and thermo chronological and potential field studies with scaled analogue modeling of oblique subduction systems. The field research will focus on northern Chile where oblique subduction of the Nazca plate has produced a complex cordilleran orogen that includes strike-slip, thrust and inversion faulting as well as major porphyry magmatism. Field studies will include transects through both the Coastal Cordillera (Atacama fault system) and Cordillera Domeyko, structural analysis sampling for fission track, Ar/ Ar and U/He dating. Laboratory studies will include analysis of Landsat TM images, interpretation of gravity and aero magnetic data, section reconstruction in 2D and 3D, and physical modeling utilizing large sandbox models of oblique subduction systems. In this manner we aim to develop 4D models for the evolution of oblique subduction systems and their fault and strain partitioning and magmatic history. In particular the focus on northern Chile will have significant impact on models for the development of porphyry Cu-Au systems in this region. The applicant will be trained in 2D and 3D section balancing and reconstruction, interpretation of Landsat lata, interpretation of aeromagnetic and gravity data and scaled physical modeling.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• ROYAL HOLLOWAY AND BEDFORD NEW COLLEGE · EghamCoordinatorUnited Kingdom

Links

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