MIGHTy - Magma-Induced deformation Generates exHumation in exTensional settings

This project will address the role of granite emplacement on crustal exhumation with an emphasis on rift settings.

Exhumation is an important tectonic process in all geodynamic settings, transporting rocks from depth towards the Earth’s surface, which makes rocks containing significant mineral and geothermal resources accessible.

Notably, the age and composition of the granitic rocks testify to an intricate link between their formation and emplacement and exhumation. In this project, we question the traditional view that magma is merely a passenger during exhumation.

Instead, we hypothesise that magma actively contributes to exhumation, aiding uplift and controlling the style of deformation.

We test this hypothesis by comparing two exhumed areas in Eastern Iceland, one with and one without granite plutons, displaying a differential exhumation of ca. 1 km.

During the 4-year project we combine structural mapping with photogrammetry, paleomagnetic plate movement reconstruction, geothermobarometry, and low-temperature thermochronometry to decipher (1) the original depth at which magma intruded, (2) the timing, magnitude, and rate of exhumation, and (3) the mechanisms of exhumation.

Our findings will fundamentally change the understanding of exhumation in extensional settings in all tectonic environments, and improve exploration efforts for mineral and geothermal resources.