Detection of gas-charged sediments and gas hydrate horizons along the western continental margin of India

Abstract

High-resolution seismic reflection and sub-bottom profiling on the continental margin off western India has revealed the presence of characteristic acoustic maskings in the form of wipe-outs, reflector terminations and seep-associated features in the inner shelf. These maskings suggest the presence of gas-charged sediments. Further seaward on the outer shelf-middle slope, pockmarks and prominent plumes in the overlying water column indicate a significant seepage of gas from the slope sediments, and it is the seepage which may demonstrate the existence of source rocks. Seismic profiles also revealed the presence of bottom simulating reflectors (BSRs) in the mid-lower slope-rise regions, presumably suggesting the presence of gas hydrates. The BSRs occur at roughly 300-600 ms (TWTT) beneath the sea floor at water depths between 525 and 2200 m; they occasionally show discontinuities. Distinct blanking zones as well as acoustic voids have also been observed above the BSR. In contrast, chaotic and/or scattered hyperbolic reflctors occur in places below the BSR, which may suggest the presence of gas-charged sediments. Folds, diapiric features and faults present in the slope-rise areas may probably werve as traps and conduits for upward migration of fluids and methane gas from the deep