ALBERT

Description: We have analysed the thermochemical structure of the mantle in Central Europe, a complex area with a highly heterogeneous lithospheric structure reflecting the interplay of contraction, strike-slip, subduction and extension tectonics. Our modeling is based on an integrative 3D approach (LitMod) that combines in a self-consistent manner concepts and data from thermodynamics, mineral physics, geochemistry, petrology, and solid-Earth geophysics. This approach minimizes uncertainties of the estimates derived from modeling of various datasets separately. To further constrain our 3D model we have made use of the vast geophysical and geological data (2D and 3D, shallow/crustal vs deep lithospheric experiments) based on experiments performed in Central Europe in the past decades. Given the amount and the different nature/resolution of the available constraints, one of the most challenging tasks of this study was to consistently combine them, finding a trade-off between all local and regional data sets available in a way that: i) preserves as many structural details as possible; and ii) summarizes those data sets into a single robust regional model. The resulting P/T dependent mantle densities are in LitMod 3D calculated based on a given mineralogical composition. They therefore provide more reliable estimates compared to pure gravity models, which enhance modeling of the crustal structures. Our results clearly indicate presence of several lithospheric domains characterized by distinct features, Pannonian Basin being one of the most outstanding ones. It has the thinnest crust and lithosphere in the area modelled, characterized by relatively fertile composition.