Integrated dynamic models of subduction initiation, slab evolution, arc - back-arc deformation and mantle convection. A major debate in plate tectonics concerns the driving mechanism for formation of extensional back-arc basins in the overriding plate along a convergent tectonic boundary, where a subducting plate is thrust into the mantle underneath an overriding plate. One hypothesis states that such extension results from sinking and rollback of the subducting plate. The physical validity of t ....Integrated dynamic models of subduction initiation, slab evolution, arc - back-arc deformation and mantle convection. A major debate in plate tectonics concerns the driving mechanism for formation of extensional back-arc basins in the overriding plate along a convergent tectonic boundary, where a subducting plate is thrust into the mantle underneath an overriding plate. One hypothesis states that such extension results from sinking and rollback of the subducting plate. The physical validity of this hypothesis will be tested using both laboratory and numerical modelling techniques. The modelling will investigate overriding plate - subducting plate - mantle interaction in three-dimensional space and quantify the role of key physical parameters on the subduction process.Read moreRead less
Relationship between subduction zone geometry, trench kinematics and great subduction earthquakes. The devastating Boxing Day 2004 earthquake near Sumatra and the four other largest earthquakes in recorded history all occurred along subduction zones. This research will compare the geodynamic setting of these subduction zones with those surrounding the Australian continent and assess whether the Australian subduction zones are capable of producing great earthquakes and tsunamis that might pose a ....Relationship between subduction zone geometry, trench kinematics and great subduction earthquakes. The devastating Boxing Day 2004 earthquake near Sumatra and the four other largest earthquakes in recorded history all occurred along subduction zones. This research will compare the geodynamic setting of these subduction zones with those surrounding the Australian continent and assess whether the Australian subduction zones are capable of producing great earthquakes and tsunamis that might pose a risk for the east and northwest coast of Australia. Also, Eastern Australia is a composite of fossil arcs rich in ore deposits and the Tasman Sea region is composed of basins that host hydrocarbons, all of which formed by subduction processes. The proposed research will thus improve the basis for mineral and hydrocarbon exploration.Read moreRead less
Dynamic tomography: high-resolution, four-dimensional imaging of processes. This project will develop imaging technology that allows us to collect detailed, three dimensional movies of complex, microscopic processes in a laboratory. This technology will have applications in soil science, biology, oil extraction, and carbon sequestration.
Testing theories of two-phase fluid flow in porous media through experiment, imaging and modelling. The process underlying oil extraction, groundwater flow and the sequestration of carbon dioxide is that of one fluid pushing another out of the microscopic spaces in porous rocks and soils. Using the latest three-dimensional X-ray microscopes and computing technology, the project will image and model these fluid flows, allowing theories to be tested for the first time.