Seismic evidence for an extensive gas-bearing layer at shallow depth, offshore from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska
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Abstract
High resolution seismic reflection data recorded offshore from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, were processed digitally to determine the reflectivity structure of the uppermost layers of the seafloor. A prominent reflector found at 27 m below the mudline (water depths 7-9 m) has a negative reflection coefficient greater than 0.5. The large acoustic impedance contrast, coupled with a report of gas encountered at a corresponding depth in a nearby drillhole, shows that the reflector is the upper boundary of a zone containing gas. The gas exists in sandy gravel capped by stiff, silty clay. Analysis of unprocessed conventional high-resolution records from the region indicates that the gas-bearing layer may extend over an area of at least 50 km at depths of 19-35 m below the mudline. Similar-appearing reflectors, previously unexplained, occur in patches over wide regions of the shelf where offshore oil development is beginning at a rapid pace. This suggests the exercise of caution with respect to possible hazards from shallow gas pockets.
Study Area
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | Seismic evidence for an extensive gas-bearing layer at shallow depth, offshore from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska |
| Series title | Open-File Report |
| Series number | 80-809 |
| DOI | 10.3133/ofr80809 |
| Year Published | 1980 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Geological Survey |
| Description | 20 p. |
| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Other Geospatial | Prudhoe Bay |
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