Adaptive finite element methods in geodynamics: Convection dominated mid‐ocean ridge and subduction zone simulations

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.

Citation

Davies, D.R., Davies, J.H., 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, Vol. 18 No. 7/8, pp. 1015-1035. https://doi.org/10.1108/09615530810899079