The Analysis of Diffuse Triple Junction Zones in Plate Tectonics and the Pirate Model of Western Caribbean Tectonics

1. Front Matter

   Pages i-ix

   PDF

2. Introduction

   • D. Fraser Keppie

   Pages 1-10

3. Western Caribbean Tectonics

   • D. Fraser Keppie

   Pages 11-60

4. Normalization Analysis for Possibly-Unstable Triple Junction Zones

   • D. Fraser Keppie

   Pages 61-75

Modern researchers in plate tectonics may be concerned with the analysis of distributed deformation across diffuse plate boundaries and triple junction zones. This book extends classic methods of kinematic analysis first developed in the 1960s to the more general scenarios of diffuse deformation zones between plates. The analytic methods presented specifically target the non-rigid deformation implied by unstable triple junction configurations. These methods are then applied to the tectonic evolution of western Caribbean region which provides new ways to test and challenge the established Pacific model of Caribbean tectonics. Possible advantages of the new Pirate model of Caribbean tectonics are discussed in terms of paleo-geography and paleo-ocean connections, as well as mineral and hydrocarbon potential and seismic risks across the region.

• Caribbean Tectonics
• Chortis Block
• Diffuse Triple Junction
• Pirate Tectonics
• Plate Boundary Curvature
• structural geology

• NSDNR, Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources, Halifax, Canada

  D. Fraser Keppie

Dr. Fraser Keppie is employed as a geologist with the Geological Services Division, Department of Natural Resources, Nova Scotia. His initial research and mapping in Nova Scotia is focused on compiling and extending tectonic models for the assembly and breakup of Pangea, with an emphasis on understanding the mechanisms of formation and evolution of the Devono-Carboniferous Maritimes Basin and its hydrocarbon potential. Prior to 2010, Fraser completed undergraduate degrees in geology and computer science at St. Francis Xavier and Acadia Universities, respectively, a doctoral degree in tectonics at McGill University, and a post-doctoral appointment at Caltech in geodynamics.

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