Armand J. Silva | Search USGS

USGS1984

Slope-stability analysis and creep susceptibility of Quaternary sediments on the northeastern United States continental slope

The continental slope off the northeastern United States is a relatively steep, morphologically complex surface which shows abundant evidence of submarine slides and related processes. Because this area may be developed by the petroleum industry, questions arise concerning the potential for further slope failures or unacceptable deformations and the conditions necessary to cause such instabilities. Accordingly, a generalized analysis of slope stability and the stress—strain—time-dependent behavior of the sediments is being conducted.

Conference Paper↗

USGS1984

Creep behavior of submarine sediments

A series of experiments on drained creep of marine sediment indicates that strength degradation results from the creep process, which implies an associated reduction in slope stability. Furthermore, the highest creep potential of a sediment may be at its preconsolidation stress. Results from the experiments on samples from Georges Bank continental slope were also used in conjunction with a preliminary theoretical model to predict creep displacements. For the case illustrated in this report, steep slopes (>20??) and thick sections (>30 m) give rise to substantial creep and probable creep rupture; as angles or thicknesses decrease, displacements rapidly become negligible. Creep may be a significant geologic process on many marine slopes. Not only can it cause major displacements of surface sediment, but it may also be the precursor to numerous slope failures. ?? 1985 Springer-Verlag New York Inc.

Geo-Marine Letters↗