Application of shallow seismics in the characterization of the continental shelf Sergipe-Alagoas

Abstract

The following paper had its development on the continental shelf of Sergipe and southern Alagoas aiming the regional mapping of geomorphological features and sedimentary cover through the study of high-resolution shallow seismic imaging, combined with bathymetry and sedimentology data on the platform. This mapping is pioneer at this region and was part of Águas Rasas Norte Project, conducted by research lab GeoRioeMar of Universidade Federal de Sergipe in partnership with PETROBRAS/CENPES, in the context of MARSEAL Project -Environmental Characterization of Sergipe and Alagoas Basin. The seismic profiles were performed by the sub-bottom profiler Edgetech 3200-XS associated with the control of collected samples. Although the interpretation of geophysical profiles have been carried out with the data without post-processing, it was possible to identify distinct reflectors and features such as reefs, carbonate banks, channels and canyons, beyond the thickness and variance of the acoustic response of distinct near-surface sediments. This preliminary characterization makes more viable seismic studies in detail about the several features and refinement of boundaries between near-surface sediments of the continental shelf of Sergipe-Alagoas. It also gives support to the interpretation of the sedimentary evolution and the possibility to expand its application to other areas such as environmental, sedimentological and geotechnical studies.