Rheological structure and tectonics of Venus inferred from strength contrast between plagioclase and olivine

Abstract

We conducted deformation experiments to directly decide the strength contrast between plagioclase (lower crust) and olivine (upper mantle) utilizing modified Griggs-type solid-medium apparatus. Experimental condition is P = 2GPa and T= 600–1000ºC under dry conditions. The numerical calculation also was performed  to investigate the effect of the strength contrast between the crust and mantle on the tectonics of Venus. Rheological structure and tectonics of Venus are discussed based on these results.