Submarine slope failures due to pipe structure formation

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-03176-1
• Publication Date: 2018-02-13T16:23:58Z
• Authors: Judith Elger; Christian Berndt; Lars Rüpke; Sebastian Krastel; Felix Gross; Wolfram H. Geissler
• Keywords: Overpressure; Clathrate hydrate; Submarine landslide

There is a strong spatial correlation between submarine slope failures and the occurrence of gas hydrates. This has been attributed to dynamic nature hydrate systems potential reduction stability due bottom water warming or sea level drop. However, 30 years research into this process found no solid supporting evidence. Here we present new reflection seismic data from Arctic Ocean numerical modelling results different link hydrates stability. Hydrates reduce sediment permeability cause build-up overpressure at base zone. Resulting hydro-fracturing forms pipe structures as pathways for overpressured fluids migrate upward. Where these reach shallow permeable beds, transfers laterally destabilises slope. reconciles landslides hydrate, it independent environmental change depth.