Adaptive finite element methods in geodynamics: convection dominated mid-ocean ridge and subduction zone simulations

Davies, David Rhodri ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7662-9468, Davies, John Huw ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2656-0260, Hassan, O., Morgan, K. and Nithiarasu, P. 2008. Adaptive finite element methods in geodynamics: convection dominated mid-ocean ridge and subduction zone simulations. International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow 18 (7/8) , pp. 1015-1035. 10.1108/09615530810899079

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Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an adaptive finite element procedure that improves the quality of convection dominated mid-ocean ridge (MOR) and subduction zone (SZ) simulations in geodynamics. Design/methodology/approach – The method adapts the mesh automatically around regions of high-solution gradient, yielding enhanced resolution of the associated flow features. The approach utilizes an automatic, unstructured mesh generator and a finite element flow solver. Mesh adaptation is accomplished through mesh regeneration, employing information provided by an interpolation-based local error indicator, obtained from the computed solution on an existing mesh. Findings – The proposed methodology works remarkably well at improving solution accuracy for both MOR and SZ simulations. Furthermore, the method is computationally highly efficient. Originality/value – To date, successful goal-orientated/error-guided grid adaptation techniques have, to the knowledge, not been utilized within the field of geodynamics. This paper presents the first true geodynamical application of such methods.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Advanced Research Computing @ Cardiff (ARCCA) Earth and Environmental Sciences
Subjects:	Q Science > QE Geology
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Finite element analysis, Flow, Meshes, Oceanography, Simulation
Publisher:	Emerald
ISSN:	0961-5539
Last Modified:	06 May 2023 22:06
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/9400

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