Modeling of Mantle Convection in 3D Subduction Zones

The influence of 3D subduction zone geometries on mantle convection patterns is not well characterized. Subducting plates with complex 3D geometries often exhibit seismological signatures that cannot be explained by 2D flow patterns [Hoernle et al. Nature 2008/2009; Long and Silver Science 2008; Kneller et al. Nature 2007]. We use finite element methods to study the lateral transport and thermal structure in 3D subduction zones and their evolution over time. Realistic 3D geometries were created from seismological observations for both the Marianas and Central America, building upon the work of Kneller et al. [Nature 2007; Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst. 2008]. Highly refined meshes were created using spherical geometry on a Cartesian mesh, and slab motion was prescribed in a kinematic manner. The finite element code Sepran was used to solve the Stokes and heat equations using diffusion creep laws for viscosity. We present the velocities, temperatures, and pressures in the mantle wedge for the Marianas and Central America regions. Comparisons are made between 2D and 3D flow patterns to test the dependence of flow on 3D geometries, in addition to dependence of flow on plate direction. Resulting thermal and lateral structures are important for understanding mantle and slab mineralogy and seismic signatures. We find the lateral transport is particularly important in regions of strong obliquity and trench curvature.