This study investigates gas hydrate distribution in the Danube Fan, NW Black Sea. Using seismic data and drilling results, we analysed the structure, composition, and gas content of underconsolidated sediments. Gas hydrates are present in low concentration and patchy distribution. Free gas is trapped beneath the hydrate stability zone. The area shows signs of past slope failures linked to weak sediments and gas accumulation. The study provides insights into how gas hydrate systems evolve.

Earth’s solid shell is made of stiff tectonic plates which can break apart to form new weak plate boundaries. We use numerical models of plate extension to investigate how mechanical properties control the concentration of deformation leading to such a boundary as hot mantle rises underneath. We highlight feedbacks, and quantify how and why, under various deformation mechanisms, the plate weakens as temperature and strain rate increase. We compare the model predictions to natural rifting cases.