Heat-flow studies in the Peru trench subduction zone

Abstract

New heat-flow values were obtained in the central Peru Trench area during site surveys and drilling of Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Leg 112. The values determined by these methods are consistent with each other within the limits of error. When combined with existing data, heat-flow distribution from the trench to the coast was delineated. Heat flow is lower than 40 mW/m2 at the bottom of the trench and 40 to 50 mW/m2 on the landward slope. The low heat flow at the trench bottom can be explained partly by a high sedimentation rate. Heat flow is variable about where the Mendana Fracture Zone meets the trench. This low heat flow might result from hydrothermal circulation in the fracture zone. -from Authors