A review of kinematic indicators from mass-transport complexes using 3D seismic data

Three-dimensional (3D) seismic reflection data have recently been shown to be an excellent tool in the study of submarine mass-transport complexes (MTCs), from which kinematic indicators can be identified. Kinematic indicators are geological structures or features which may be analysed to allow the direction, magnitude and mode of transport to be constrained. The various indicator types have been classified according to where they may typically be found within the MTC body – the headwall domain, translational domain and toe domain. Aspects of their formation, identification using seismic data and their kinematic value are discussed, and illustrated using examples taken from 3D seismic data from the continental margin of Norway and the Levant Margin, both of which have been influenced by repetitive large-scale slope failure in the recent past. The imaging of kinematic indicators using seismic surveys which provide large areal coverage allows swift and confident evaluation of the direction of translation, and in many cases also allow the degree of translation of the displaced slide material to be constrained. Imaging of the basal shear surface, analysis of internal architectures and determination of transport direction are areas which are of particular benefit from the analysis of 3D seismic. The descriptions and applications of the various kinematic indicators detailed in this study should find broad applicability for seismic interpreters working on MTCs in many different settings and locations.