Kinematics and deformation structures in a crustal-scale shear zone on Kea (W. Cyclades, Greece)

Abstract

It is generally agreed upon that the exhumation of metamorphic rocks in the Aegean is caused by post orogenic extension in the late Oligocene to early Miocene. This extension is in principle largely accommodated by low-angle crustal detachment faulting possibly resulting in the formation of metamorphic core complexes (MCC). Here, we present data from recent structural investigations on the island of Kea in the W. Cyclades, Greece. Our work focussed in the north of the island. Of the ca. 270m total structural thickness that was mapped, the entire section of rocks are highly strained. Exhumation during progressive deformation is recorded by the transition from ductile to brittle/ductile to brittle conditions. The regional characteristics and types of deformation structures vary depending on the protolith and the intensity of strain...