Indicators of gas hydrates: Role of velocity and amplitude

Abstract

Methane hydrates/gas hydrates are now viewed as a promising alternate energy source in the near future. Studies are now more focused to find the indicators of these deposits and aid in exploration purposes. Bottom simulating reflectors (BSRs) identified on the seismic reflection records are the most important indicators of gas hydrates. BSRs are recognized on the seismic records as strong negative-polarity reflectors mimicking the seafloor. Velocity and amplitude (VAMP) are essentially the pseudo-structures that are associated with the massive hydrate deposits and are also observable on the seismic records as a series of pull-ups directly above the push-downs. These features have been used to delineate free gas in the Aleutian, Bowers and Berings basin. Investigations are being carried out in Indian offshore regions to evaluate the presence of gas hydrates. Therefore studies regarding the occurrence of VAMPs gain importance. In the present communication we studied VAMP anomalies identified in the marine reflection data off Kerala-Konkan region, western India.