Insight into the dynamics of the large low shear velocity provinces from shear wave anisotropy of the lowermost mantle
This project aims at constraining the dynamics of large low shear velocity provinces (LLSVPs), their deformation pattern and composition using the shear wave anisotropy of the lowermost mantle. The lowermost mantle, specifically the D” layer, is very difficult to explore due to the scarcity of seismic observations in that great depth. The two LLSVPs in the D” layer exhibit characteristic physico-chemical properties unlike the surrounding mantle. Although the plumes are being generated from these structures, the composition of plumes and LLSVPs are not the same. Using 3D numerical modelling of mantle convection, I will model the seismic anisotropy generated from different deformation mechanisms in the lower mantle and compare them with the observations. The deformation mechanisms and the flow pattern will tell us about the rheological properties as well as the density structure of the LLSVPs. Adding to that, I will also try to address the geochemical composition of the D” layer with special focus on LLSVPs.
![[Translate to English:] Illustration of the project](/fileadmin/_processed_/0/6/csm_pdfresizer.com-pdf-Poulami_d56a1f9c3f.jpeg)
Project duration : 2021-2024
Funding agency : DAAD
PhD candidate: Poulami Roy
Supervisors: Bernhard Steinberger, Sascha Brune