A submarine slope instability analysis of the eastern Banda Sea is presented based on geological, seismological, geophysical, and geotechnological information. The analysis resulted in the production of various overlays which were placed on top of a bathymetrical base map. Geotechnical data acquired during the Snellius-II Expedition were statistically analysed and formed, together with the information on the constructed overlays, the input for the geotechnical stability calculations. As a result, stability numbers were found and by plotting them on an overlay, a submarine slope instability hazard map of the eastern Banda Sea was produced on which potentially unstable regions were indicated. Since evidence for actual slumping and sliding is present in seismic profiles and by examination of piston-core material, it is concluded that large regions along the eastern Banda Sea area are potentially unstable due to high seismicity, steep slopes and soft sediments. |
