adhäsionsgürteln

Adhäsionsgürteln, meaning "adhesion belts" in English, is a term used in volcanology to describe a specific type of geological feature associated with subduction zones. These belts are characterized by a zone of intense deformation where the oceanic plate being subducted scrapes against the overriding continental plate. This scraping action leads to the accumulation and imbursal of material from the subducting plate onto the edge of the overriding plate.

The formation of adhäsionsgürteln involves significant tectonic stress and friction. As the denser oceanic crust descends beneath the lighter continental crust, large shear forces are generated. These forces cause the rock to deform plastically and fracture, leading to the formation of complex structures such as thrust faults and folds. Sediments, volcanic rocks, and even fragments of the oceanic crust itself can be incorporated into this accretionary wedge.

Adhäsionsgürteln are often associated with significant seismic activity, as the accumulated stress can be released in powerful earthquakes. They can also play a crucial role in the evolution of mountain ranges, as the material accreted contributes to the thickening and uplift of the continental margin. The study of adhäsionsgürteln provides valuable insights into the processes occurring at convergent plate boundaries and the formation of major geological features on Earth.