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Comparing different shallow geophysical methods in a tidal estuary, Verdronken Land van Saeftinge, Western Scheldt, the Netherlands

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 April 2016

T. Missiaen ,
E. Slob  and
M.E. Donselaar
T. Missiaen*
Affiliation:
Dept. of Geotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Mijnbouwstraat 120, 2628 RX Delft, the Netherlands. Renard Centre of Marine Geology, University of Gent, Krijgslaan 281-S8, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
E. Slob
Affiliation:
Dept. of Geotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Mijnbouwstraat 120, 2628 RX Delft, the Netherlands.
M.E. Donselaar
Affiliation:
Dept. of Geotechnology, Delft University of Technology, Mijnbouwstraat 120, 2628 RX Delft, the Netherlands.
*
*Corresponding author. Email:t.missiaen@citg.tudelft.nl
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Abstract

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In order to validate existing models of sedimentation in active sedimentary environments, detailed stratigraphic information is indispensable. Near-surface geophysical methods provide a means to acquire high-resolution images of the stratigraphic succession in the shallow subsurface. Land-based and marine methods have been tested in the Verdronken Land van Saeftinge. This intertidal flat area is cut by numerous tidal gullies, and high tidal amplitudes enable the application of different techniques at various water levels. Data acquisition focused on the upper 10 – 20 m of the active sediment bodies. Applied techniques include high-resolution seismic acquisition, geo-electrical methods (DC resistivity), electromagnetic techniques, CPT, and manual drilling. In general the acoustic methods allowed more reliable and detailed interpretation of the sedimentary structures than the electric/electromagnetic methods. The latter suffered from the effect of tidal action and salt-water intrusion, and their application on land proved very strenuous. CPT and shallow cores provided valuable ground-truth information. The results clearly indicate that no single technique can provide all the answers. Only an integrated use of (complementary) methods will allow getting a better grip on the sedimentary architecture and preservation potential in active estuarine sedimentary environments.

Keywords

Tidal estuaryintertidal flatland-sea boundaryshallow geophysicsWestern Scheldt
Type
Research Article
Information
Netherlands Journal of Geosciences , Volume 87 , Issue 2 , August 2008 , pp. 151 - 164
Copyright
Copyright © Stichting Netherlands Journal of Geosciences 2008

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