Experimental Investigation of Permeability in Partially Molten Rocks: Application to Mid-Ocean Ridges

University Of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis MN

Investigators

Abstract

Two major issues associated with the formation of oceanic crust via upward flow of melt will be investigated. First, three-dimensional imaging and numerical methods will be combined to quantify the permeability of partially molten upper mantle rocks. Second, the spontaneous localization of melt into channels during deformation will be explored through high-strain shear experiments on partially molten upper mantle rocks. The research will provide important constraints on and quantificaiton of melt distribution and permeability beneath a mid-ocean ridge.