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

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