Results from the use of broad-band, sub-bottom seismic data with statistically based sediment classification techniques

Abstract

The QTC VIEW sediment classification system has been applied to shallow, high resolution seismic data recorded with the IKB-SEISTEC profiler from the navigable channel of the St. Lawrence estuary in Canada. A number of 10 minute sections of seismic data in water depths from 10-15 m were selectedfrom profiles covering a the wide variety of bottom sediment types found in the channel. These data sets were used in n unsupervized classification scheme to differentiate the various sediments and seafloor morphologies. Five distinct classes (of sediments) were identified ranging fromfine silt/clay to medium sand. However, it was found that shallow gas, in various forms has a controlling influence in some areas.