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Data Processing Methods for 3D Seismic Imaging of Subsurface Volcanoes: Applications to the Tarim Flood Basalt
Published on: August 7, 2017
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The brittle-ductile transition in active volcanoes
Francesco Parisio1, Sergio Vinciguerra2, Olaf Kolditz3,4
1Department of Environmental Informatics, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research GmbH - UFZ, Leipzig, Germany. francesco.parisio@protonmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|January 16, 2019
Summary
Understanding volcanic deformation is key to predicting eruptions. This study reveals how rock properties influence pre-eruptive signals, showing brittle-ductile transitions impact ground deformation and seismicity.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Volcanology
- Solid Earth Geophysics
Background:
- Volcanic eruptions are preceded by complex deformation signals.
- Magma intrusion and pressurization cause density increases and uplifts, contrasting with dilatant responses and reduced uplifts.
- The rheology of volcanic edifice rocks significantly influences precursory deformation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the impact of rock rheology on pre-eruptive deformation mechanisms.
- Model the pressure and temperature-dependent brittle-ductile transition in volcanic settings.
- Analyze the influence of static diking on the shallow crust's brittle-ductile transition.
Main Methods:
- Developed a model for pressure and temperature-dependent brittle-ductile transition.
- Constructed shallow crustal strength profiles for igneous and sedimentary volcanic settings.
- Performed finite element analyses under coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical conditions.
Main Results:
- Dilatancy is a reliable indicator of the brittle-ductile transition in active volcanoes.
- The modeled brittle-ductile transition depth aligns with observed attenuated seismicity.
- Diking-induced seismicity is influenced by localized ductile deformation due to temperature increases.
- Brittle-dilatant failure within the edifice reduces strength and stiffness, hindering stress transfer and damping surface uplift.
Conclusions:
- Rock rheology critically governs pre-eruptive deformation and seismic signals.
- The brittle-ductile transition is a key factor in understanding volcanic unrest.
- Model results provide insights into seismic attenuation and surface deformation patterns before eruptions.
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