Research project AP/20 (Research action AP)
RESOURCE-3D responds to the call for a project to determine with a ‘sediment profiler’ the internal structure of sandbanks and the thickness of gravel fields on the Belgian Continental Shelf (BCS). A maximum of resolution is required for the Quaternary deposits up to the Tertiary surface (up to 20 m thickness). Additionally, a simultaneous deployment with the multibeam system on board of R/V Belgica is asked for.
Revealing the internal structure of sandbanks by means of high-resolution seismic (acoustic) methods remains one of the classic methodological challenges in shallow marine geophysical prospection. This is mostly due to the strong heterogeneity of the sandbank body in combination with a complex seafloor morphology.
A two-tiered project concept is proposed based on a methodological-technological part, coupled to a strong interpretative part. The most suitable seismic methodology/strategy will be determined based on a comparative study of a suite of state-of-the-art source/receiver configurations. A well conceived interpretation part is, however, crucial to translate the seismic data into reliable sedimentological and lithological information. UGent-RCMG can rely on its long tradition and experience in seismic-stratigraphic research on the BCS.
The seismic system that will eventually be used to acquire the project data on the test site(s) will be selected based on the results of the comparative study. The primary criterium will be the performance of the system to characterise the subsurface structure over the whole sandbank with the best resolution. Additional criteria are the possibility for simultaneous deployment with the multibeam-echosounder on board of R/V Belgica and the user-friendliness for the commissioner. A strategic dense network of seismic cross-profiles will be necessary to reveal the 3D architecture of the test site(s) in detail. All of the data acquisition will be fully digital to enable post-acquisition treatment and processing.
Highly specialised software will be used to, based on the seismic data sets, identify, trace and map the structuring sediment bodies. To translate the “acoustic information” in a most unbiased way, in terms of its lithological and sedimentological nature, UG-RCMG’s knowledge database and available background information on the Quaternary geology of the BCS will be very important.
Finally, the interpreted seismic data will be integrated with other datasets such as the multibeam bathymetry. This will enable a high-resolution 3-dimensional quantitative analysis and representation of the sandbank architecture and its economical potential. The final findings and results will be formulated in a report with recommendations. Most of the data will be integrated in a GIS environment.
Towards a high-resolution 3D-analysis of sandbank architecture on the Belgian Continental Shelf (RESOURCE-3D) : final report
Brussels : Federal Science Policy, 2009 (SP2147)
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