Influence of the Thickness of the Overriding Plate on Convergence Zone Dynamics

The important role played by the upper plate in convergence zones dynamics has long been underestimated but is now more and more emphasized. However, the influence of its thickness and/or strength on orogenic systems evolution remains largely unknown. Here we present results from 3D thermo-mechanical numerical simulations of convergence zones (including oceanic subduction followed by continental subduction/collision), in which we vary the rheological profile of the overriding plate (OP). For this, we systematically modify the crustal thickness of the overriding lithosphere and the temperature at the Moho to obtain a thermal thickness of the overriding lithosphere ranging from 80 to 180 km. While all models share a common global evolution (i.e., slab sinking, interaction between slab and the 660 km discontinuity, continental subduction/collision, and slab breakoff), they also highlight first-order differences arising from the variations in the OP strength (thermal thickness). With a thin/weak OP, slab rollback is favored, the slab dip is low, the mantle flow above the slab is vigorous, and the trench migrates at a high rate compared to a thick/strong OP. In addition, slab breakoff and back-arc basin formation events occur significantly earlier than in models involving a thick OP. Our models therefore highlight the major role played by the thickness/strength of the OP on convergence zone dynamics and illustrate its influence in a quantitative way.