Explosive Behavior of Lava Domes

Arizona State University, Scottsdale AZ

Investigators

Abstract

Fink EAR-0001015 Lava domes are among the most common eruption products of stratovolcanoes and calderas. Existing models suggest that the energy of a dome collapse event depends on the lava volatile content and strength of the dome's carapace. The proposed research will synthesize both existing and new field observations, geochemical analyses, laboratory simulations, rheological measurements, and numerical modeling to better quantify those factors that lead to explosive activity at seemingly benign lava domes. Five individual tasks will be undertaken that track the migration of dome magmas and the factors that control their explosivity. The results of these components will be developed in parallel so that one part of the project can inform and guide the others. We will attempt to integrate, and in some cases collect, fresh observations of new dome eruptions to validate our models. We will take advantage of extensive new results and associated conceptual advances recently published and in press from the Soufriere Hills eruption in Montserrat. This multifaceted research effort should help mitigate volcanic hazards by identifying those lava domes, or parts of lava domes, with the greatest destructive potential.