Thermo-Mechanical Rift Evolution of Large Igneous Province Crust

Abstract

Numerical models, coupled with observational data, have proven crucial for addressing fundamental questions regarding extensional processes from continental rift to mid-ocean ridge (MOR). However, extensional processes at Large Igneous Provinces (LIP), a distinct type of lithosphere, have not been examined, leaving a thorough comprehension of rift mechanics unresolved. Here, we model the thermo-mechanical evolution for LIPs, with reference to William's Ridge (Kerguelen Plateau) and Broken Ridge, conjugate segments of the Kerguelen LIP. In this study, we employ distinctive input parameters to define the LIP lithosphere, incorporating the mafic crustal composition typically found at MORs, but ..