Geoscience Data Integration: Insights into Mapping Lithospheric Architecture

Abstract

In order to develop a 4D understanding of the architecture of the entire lithosphere, it is necessary to embrace integration of multi-disciplinary, multi-scale data in a GIS environment. An holistic understanding has evolved whereby geologic, geochemical and geophysical signals are consistent with a subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM) dominated by a mosaic of domains of Archean ancestry, variably overprinted by subsequent tectonothermal events. Pristine Archean SCLM is mostly highly depleted (high Mg#), low density, high velocity and highly resistive, and preserves intact Archean crust. There is a first order relationship between changes to these signals and the degree of tectonothermal overprint (by melts, fluids). Continental crust is comprised largely of reconstituted Archean components, variably diluted by juvenile addition, symptomatic of the various overprinting events. These events impart crustal fabrics and patterns dictated by SCLM architecture, influenced by the free surface and crust-mantle decoupling.