Plate convergence can induce large-scale metamorphism and magmatism, reshape large parts of continental margins, and subsequently change regional climate and biodiversity. Metamorphic rocks in orogens commonly show variable degrees of deformation and recrystallization. Although amphibolite, blueschist, eclogite, and granulite occur sporadically in orogenic belts, they record different metamorphic evolutions and temporal-spatial distributions at the regional scale, which are strongly influenced by convergent processes through time. In some cases, ultrahigh-pressure (UHP) and ultrahigh-temperature (UHT) metamorphic rocks are observed at both ancient and young convergent plate margins, marking the operation of extreme tectonism in the regime of plate tectonics. During the extreme tectonic episodes, subducted crust was subjected to dehydration or partial melting and transformed to high-pressure (HP) or UHP rocks. The crustal-derived fluids or melts would modify the physical-chemical properties of the mantle wedge. On the other hand, crustal rocks in the overriding plate would undergo partial melting and high-temperature (HT) or UHT granulite-facies metamorphism.

This Research Topic aims to understand how regional metamorphism was operated at convergent plate margins through the study of field and petrographic observations, geochemical and petrological analysis, high-pressure experiment, and thermodynamic and numerical modelling. We encourage multi-disciplinary and state-of-the-art works, particularly new observations, experimental and theoretical studies. The scope is to gather new ideas and interpretations on the structure and processes of convergent plate margins.

Research interests include but are not limited to, the following issues:

• Subduction style in the early Earth;
• Progress of extreme metamorphism at convergent plate margins;
• Metamorphic processes during subduction initiation;
• The interplay between metamorphism and deformation in orogens;
• C-H-S-O recycling in subduction zones;
• Crust-mantle interactions in subduction zones;
• Metamorphic P-T-t path and orogenic evolution;
• Crustal anatexis and the genesis of granite;
• Evolution and chronology of metamorphic accessory minerals; and
• Progress and application of phase equilibrium modelling.

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Frontiers in Earth Science

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