Simulation of subduction zone seismicity by dehydration of serpentine.
We measured acoustic emission energy during antigorite dehydration in a multianvil press from 1.5 to 8.5 gigapascals and 300 degrees to 900 degrees C. There was a strong acoustic emission signal on dehydration, and analysis of recovered samples revealed brittle deformation features associated with high pore-fluid pressures. These results demonstrate that intermediate depth (50 to 200 kilometers) seismicity can be generated by dehydration reactions in the subducting slab.
Dobson
David P
DP
Bayerisches Geoinstitut, Universität Bayreuth, D-95440 Bayreuth, Germany. d.dobson@ucl.ac.uk
Meredith
Philip G
PG
Boon
Stephen A
SA