Regional Distribution and Characteristics of Bottom sediments in Arctic Coastal Waters of Alaska. Review of Current Literature.
Abstract
This report includes a discussion of some of the properties and characteristics of offshore marine sediments found in the U.S. Beaufort Sea that could influence aspects of offshore development. A collection of references is also included in an appendix. Perennially and seasonally frozen sediments are extremely common, with variable distribution and properties. The depth to the top of icebonded permafrost can be as little as 7 m below the seabed many kilometers from the sea coast. The subsea permafrost can contain visible ground ice similar to that observed on land, and can be anticipated to cause problems at least as great as those experienced on land. The distribution and properties of fine-grained sediments are also variable with evidence that they are commonly overconsolidated. The distribution and properties of these sediments can be important in influencing access to material suitable for construction of offshore structures, such as islands. The possible occurrence of gas hydrates and some of industry's experience with this form of natural gas are also discussed. A recent paper by Barnes and Reimnitz (1979) provides new information on redistribution of seabed sediments during periodic events. Their observations suggest that previous estimates of gouge frequency and maximum depth can be conservative, and that gouging and sediment infilling can be more dynamic than previous data may indicate. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA084922
Entities
People
- Paul V. Sellmann
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory