BK-Strain_localization-CIG.pdf

The evolution of orogenic wedges is dependent on the viscoplastic rheology of the crust. Here, we explore the role of the Moho temperature, by increasing the crustal thickness, and convergence velocity. The convergence velocity influences the depth of the brittle-ductile transition, whilst the crustal thickness influences the thickness of ductile lower crust. We find three different types of plastic wedges, either plastic, viscous or viscoplastic, dependent on the initial crustal thickness and convergence velocity.