Adaptive finite element methods in geodynamics

Abstract

PurposeThe 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/approachThe 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.FindingsThe proposed methodology works remarkably well at improving solution accuracy for both MOR and SZ simulations. Furthermore, the method is computationally highly efficient.Originality/valueTo 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.