Seabed Mapping and Characterization for Feature Detection in Niger Delta

Seabed mapping and characterization of part of offshore Niger Delta was carried out using advanced subsea surveying techniques. The objectives were to generate precise seabed imagery, determine depth ranges, detect and locate underwater metallic anomalies like pipelines, and to correlate the various data for proper seabed assessment and management. The study used technologies such as Multibeam Echo Sounder (MBES), Side-Sean Sonar (SSS), Sub-bottom Profilers (SBP), and Geographic Information System (GIS) to create high resolution model of the seabed within a 500m x 500m area around an Exxon Mobil Single Point Mooring (SPM) facility. The methodology involved thorough data acquisition, calibration and processing of sonar, magnetometer and bathymetric data. The analyses revealed essential seabed features, including a depth range of 25.6 to 27.3m, dominant silty clayey sand sediments, high-reflective patches around anchor chains. It also revealed significant magnetic anomalies indicative of exposed pipeline and anchor chains. Sub-bottom profiling data also indicated sediments layers with recently deposited sands overlying lithified sand layers. The study demonstrates the value of integrating different survey methods to address the unique challenges posed by the dynamic and sediment laden offshore environment of the Niger Delta. The findings support improved infrastructure safety, sustainable resource management and environmental conservation, offering a reliable basis for future decision-making in offshore exploration and exploitation of the vase resources in this economically critical region.

Seabed mapping, features detection, Multibeam Echo-Sounder, Side-Scan Sonar, Sub-bottom Profiler.

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