Convergent plate boundaries and collision zones

Abstract

Within the framework of the International Continental Drilling Program (ICDP) we propose a comprehensive initiative to drill the continental crust bordering modern and ancient convergent and collisional plate boundaries. These zones host the vast majority of modern megacities and industrial installations on Planet Earth, and at the same time are loci of major earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and other associated great natural threats to human life and to economies. In-depth understanding of dynamic Earthprocesses at convergent and collisional plate boundaries is not possible without scientific drilling embedded into integrated research programmes. The set of scientific questions identified here is rooted in the plate tectonic paradigm of a dynamic Earth. Proposed studies derived from these questions target on (1) the dynamics of active subduction and collision zones, with focus on the seismogenic zone at the plate interface, and the distribution of deformation and seismicity in general, (2) the role of mantle plumes in orogeny, (3) supra-subduction magmatism in arc systems, (4) the geological manifestation of deep subduction and exhumation of the lithosphere, and (5) aspects relating to continental birth and growth through Earth history. ICDP drilling in convergent and collisional plate margins faces unprecedented challenges regarding drilling technology, drilling depth and requirements for long-term monitoring of Earth processes in downhole observatories. © 2007 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.