In more complex cases, we cooperate with others. Erosion and sedimentation are also a frequent concern in the marine environment and in larger lakes. While studies of beaches are common-place, we have a rather unique expertise in studying the coastal zone in a broader perspective, focusing on the coast rather than the beach, and including also the offshore areas that are too often neglected in beach studies. The side scan sonar data can be processed in a computer to form a mosaic of the bottom. Sediment samples, cores, and sub-bottom profiles are used as complements in the interpretation.
Sonar maps provide a wealth of information, but a skilled interpreter is needed for the analysis.
Our sonar expert has over 15 years of experience from working with rectifying side scan sonar, in a wide range of climates and environments. A side scan sonar mosaic is invaluable in interpreting the sediment dynamics of an area. It greatly facilitates a correct interpretation by revealing the spatial variability of key variables, such as grain size, gas content, bedrock exposures, patches of temporarily deposited organic sediments, and turbidity current routes. The morphological mapping also provides information needed for the identification of areas with slope instabilities and under-water screes, conditions that pose a threat to underwater installations such as cables, pipelines, and oil plattforms. Furthermore, features such as wrecks, cables, and pipelines , can be mapped.