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Viscoelastic folding: Maxwell versus Kelvin Rheology
Author(s) -
Schmalholz S. M.,
Podladchikov Y. Y.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2000gl012158
Subject(s) - viscoelasticity , rheology , viscosity , elastic modulus , kelvin wave , mechanics , deformation (meteorology) , viscous stress tensor , materials science , lithosphere , classical mechanics , physics , geology , composite material , cauchy stress tensor , paleontology , meteorology , tectonics
Folding of a viscoelastic layer embedded in a viscous matrix is studied analytically using two viscoelastic rheological models: The Maxwell and the Kelvin model. The layer deformation behaviour approximates the viscous or elastic limits depending on the single parameter, R , which is proportional to the viscosity contrast and the ratio of layer‐parallel stress to shear modulus. A layer with Maxwell rheology approximates this limit that generates the fastest amplification whereas a layer with Kelvin rheology approximates the slowest limit. For R < 1 the viscous limit is fastest whereas for R > 1 the elastic limit is fastest. The Kelvin rheology is suitable to describe the effective flexural response of a lithospheric plate consisting of an elastic layer overlying a viscous layer, since the Kelvin rheology yields an identical bending moment. A critical elastic layer thickness, R ² H /3 ( H =lithospheric thickness), is derived at which the deformation behaviour of the lithospheric plate changes from quasi‐viscous to quasi‐elastic.