Numerical Simulation of CO₂ Emissions in Large Igneous Provinces and their Implication on Climate Evolution

Large igneous provinces (LIPs) are associated with the non-linear dynamics of deep mantle plume - lithosphere interactions, partial melting, volcanic emplacement and volatile emission on variable spatial and temporal scales. CO₂ emissions during such events are a major driver of mass extinction, the severity of which depends not only on the characteristics of the mantle plume, but also on the overlying lithosphere in which it is emplaced. The complex, multiscale processes connecting mantle-plume dynamics with surface volcanism, CO₂ outgassing, and the possible consequences for biological factors still needs further understanding.

To address this question, we use the thermomechanical numerical model I3ELVIS. This model incorporates mantle dynamic processes, such as partial melting and melt extraction. CO₂ is emitted in a simplified manner under the assumption of melt equilibrium and can be monitored over time and space. Our aim is to link deep Earth geodynamics with surface environmental and climatic consequences in order to provide a better, more comprehensive framework for understanding LIP events and quantifying their impact on mass extinctions.

Our preliminary results indicate that the intensity and temporal evolution of CO₂ outgassing depends on the geological setting and are not always synchronous with volcanic activity. Large igneous plume activity under oceanic crust results in single-peak rather than multi-peak outgassing, as observed in normal crustal and cratonic geological settings. Preliminary implications for climate and vegetation evolution are discussed.