Modeling present-day structure of the lithosphere
Boris Kaus
Various geophysical methods give insights in the present day structure of the lithosphere. Yet, in order to understand how lithospheric processes work, we need to implement this geometric information in 3D dynamic models of lithospheric deformation.
Here, we focus on the present-day structure of the lithosphere, as that is where most datasets are available.
More specifically we have implemented the following steps:
1. We developed a MATLAB/GMT/PARAVIEW software package that collects available geophysical data (such as gravity, topography, seismicity, seismic tomography) and helps with creating realistic 3D input models for geodynamic models.
2. Our 3D lithospheric-scale models incorporate an internal free surface
3. We have applied the models to better understand mantle flow patterns beneath the Alps.
4. The geometry and rheology of the sub-alpine slab has a large influence on mantle flow patterns beneath the alps.