4th ISSMGE Bramlette McClelland Lecture

Introduction

Understanding the Full Potential of an Integrated Geoscience Study
by Alan Young

Tuesday 12th September 6pm
Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, Kensington, London SW7 2AR

Synopsis
The lecture will describe innovative changes in geophysical and geotechnical equipment and advances in marine technology that allows the offshore industry to conduct integrated geoscience studies. This holistic approach allows an interdisciplinary team to develop the five components of a 4D Geo-Site Model. The model defines the three-dimensional building blocks of subsurface geologic structure, geotechnical conditions, and geo-constraints. Age dating is critical for defining the fourth dimension (time) since it provides the framework for understanding the geological history and the frequency of geological processes. Correlating sequence stratigraphy, geotechnical soil properties and horizon age control is a model benefit that allows extrapolation of spatial subsurface conditions. The capability to assess site favourability for various installation and operational criteria is another benefit. Regulations should not be too prescriptive and allow experienced engineers and geologists to plan the scope of site investigations. The paper indicates that if we change our way of collectively studying the seafloor, an integrated study will reduce uncertainty in the overall design process.

Download the McClelland Lecture flyer 2017