SANDBØLGE

Sandwaves are common on many continental shelves indicating erosion, transport and deposition of sand by bottom currents. Their dynamic nature means that they can pose challenges to seafloor installations such as pipelines and other constructions on the seafloor. For studies of pollution and seabed resources (biological and geological) it is necessary to know where erosion and seposition occur. Detailed observations and descriptions of sandwaves as well as correct interpretation of their sedimentary environment are of importance for both industry and government for management of the ocean areas.

A total of 37 gas flares have been identified in a 325 km2 area northeast of Kvitøya. Most of the flares occur in the western part of the area. Many occur along a NNW-SSE trend, indicating that they may be sourced from deep-seated NNW-SSE trending faults.
Sedimentary bedrock beneath a thin cover of soft sediments is indicated in a small depression in the western part of the study area, where we observe crag and tail structures and outcropping strata.
Very few pockmarks occur in the investigated area, and the pockmarks observed are small and shallow.