Characteristics of Sub-Aerially Emplaced Pyroclasts in the Surtsey Eruption Deposits: Implications for Diverse Surtseyan Eruptive Styles

A new analysis of the 1963–1967 Surtsey eruption deposits reveals diverse pyroclastic textures and microstructures, challenging previous assumptions about Surtseyan volcanism. The study identifies distinct subaerial cone-forming deposits—characterized by poorly sorted fines rich in sideromelane ash and composite bombs—and submarine edifice samples with fines-poor, vesicular coarse ash horizons. This diversity suggests a broader range of eruptive styles than previously recognized. Researchers examined archived samples from the Icelandic Natural History Museum, including material collected during the eruption and from the 1979 Surtsey core, alongside recent field samples. The findings imply that Surtseyan eruptions can produce varied volcanic products depending on vent conditions.

Verolino, A., White, J. D. L., Baxter, R. J. M., Schipper, C. I., & Thordarson, T. (2022). Characteristics of Sub-Aerially Emplaced Pyroclasts in the Surtsey Eruption Deposits: Implications for Diverse Surtseyan Eruptive Styles. Geosciences, 12(2), 79. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences12020079