Mechanical simulation of shallow dike propagation in volcanic edifices

Volcanic eruptions are complex events that can have significant impacts on human populations and infrastructure. In this thesis, I investigate stresses induced by gravity in volcanic edifices. In particular, I study the orientation of principal stress axes, as these control the direction of magma propagation by diking. I construct simple axisymmetric volcano topographies inspired by volcanoes in nature and then I test widely used assumptions on the state of stress, to discuss which of these assumptions might be more appropriate for volcano edifices. I also use a simple, recently developed, dike propagation model (Simplified Analytical model, or SAM) to predict dike trajectories in a progressively more realistic edifice stress field. The results of this study provide new insights into the factors that influence dike propagation and vent opening, highlighting the importance of considering the topographic loading and other stress-modifying processes in the modelling of volcanic eruptions. The study also demonstrates the potential of the SAM model for investigating dike propagation behaviour in volcanic areas.