Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/D521549/1

Deformation mechanisms, kinematics & conditions in an oceanic core complex: quantitative microstructural analysis of samples from IODP Expedition 305.

Principal Investigator:: Professor DJ Prior, University of Liverpool, Earth Surface Dynamics
Grant held at:: University of Liverpool, Earth Surface Dynamics

ENRIs:: Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Tectonic Processes; Properties Of Earth Materials; Mantle & Core Processes

Abstract:: Mid-oceanic ridges are the most important magmatic systems on the planet. Generation and emplacement of magma is controlled by the large-scale rifting (stretching) of the ocean crust and underlying mantle at mid-ocean ridges. Oceanic core-complexes are areas where a large scale fault allows the deeper parts of the mid-ocean ridge complex to be exposed and accessible. The large faults are themselves an important component of the rifting process. In this project we will study rocks from an oceanic core-complex, recovered as part of the International Ocean Drilling Program. We will quantify the microscale arrangement of grains (the rock microstructure) and the degree of crystal alignment (crystallographic preferred orientation: CPO) in each of the samples. The primary tool for this analysis will be electron backscatter diffraction, a scanning electron microscope based method that allows quantitative mapping of rock and mineral microstructures. The microstructural and CPO data will be compared with existing data from experimental calibrations and field studies to constrain the conditions and rates of deformation associated with the evolution of the core-complex. Such data are essential for modelling the large scale evolution of oceanic core complexes.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £6,115

Total - Staff	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs
£2,714	£2,153	£1,248

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