A High-Resolution Global Subduction Model with Data Assimilation

Thanks to the large computational power provided by NCSA, we developed a high-resolution global subduction model with data assimilation. This model has a lateral resolution of ~23 km and a variable vertical resolution with the finest resolution of 12.6 km. The model runs from 150 Ma to present. The resultant slab fits the tomography quite well. Several features, including data assimilation, asymmetric subduction, tracer-defined compostion as well as mantle plumes, enables the model to approximate the evolution of the Earth. We believe it will greatly expand our ability to study the geological past.