The aim of this WP is to identify the MA deposits in Greece after an evaluation of all the collected data and information (WP-2) and select relative sites for seismic sub-bottom profiling. In order to detect the most valuable MA deposits, MAs morphology and sedimentology will be investigated with in-situ sampling.

The implementation of this WP includes the following four (4) tasks.

 Task 3.1. Selection of submarine areas with potential MA deposits

Description / Methodology: The aim of this task is to identify subaqueous locations that may host MA deposits, utilizing any available data and information collected and registered in the data base (T-2.5). Emphasis will be given on possible MA deposits in the form either of relict and/or modern formations. Relict deposits includes sand and gravel sheets, ancient sand banks, drowned beaches and ancient river valleys, while modern deposits are mainly associated with sand and gravel banks. In addition, the ultimate decision for the proper selection of the most valuable MA deposits will rely on the available instrumentation and methodology for MA prospecting (bathymetry and seismic sub-bottom profiling, and necessary sampling techniques for ground truthing).

Deliverable: D12- List and description of the selected study areas (Technical Report)

 Task 3.2. Geo-physical data acquisition and analysis

Description / Methodology: The study areas already selected in Task 3.1 will be surveyed for their bathymetry and morphology. Also, acoustic sub-bottom profiles will be acquired to determine the volume and internal structure of the MA deposits. These profiles will be digitally processed through specialized applications in order to be spatially and chronologically compared. Then, 3D bathymetric and geomorphological maps will be created for the discrimination of MA deposits from the other sediment formations (e.g., muds) occurring in the host study area. More specifically, high resolution multi-beam systems (Reson 7125, SeaBeam 2120 and 1180) will be used for the production of bathymetric maps, whereas a side-scan sonar system will be used for the mosaic recreation of the sea floor. These techniques together with seabed sampling will considerably contribute to the understanding of sea bottom granulometry. Finally, a boomer device will be used for the seismic sub-bottom profiling; this instrument is ideal for a high resolution seabed stratigraphy, due to its high penetration ability (up to 80 m), whilst permitting the discrimination between muddy, sandy, and gravelly layers, in combination with the granulometry of the core-sampling. The field work will be carried out with the use of R/V FILIA (28 m long), and the recently launched R/V ALKYON (13 m long) which is suitable for research at shallow depths

Deliverable: D-13: Field work description (Technical Report)

Description / Methodology: The specific geomorphological features of the sediment formations surrounding the MA deposits will be investigated through a detailed interpretation of acoustic sub-bottom profiles, combined with the precise bathymetry of the locations hosting the MA deposits. This work will focus on the overall stratigraphy and geological formations (including deformation features, e.g., faults, folds, etc) of the seabed that hosts MA deposits and will be combined with the existing geological knowledge of the broader study area, utilizing also the data base (T2.5). Additional information about the composition of the occurring sediments will be obtained from specific sedimentological analyses (WP-4). The outcome will also provide evidence about the formation (relict or modern) of the MA deposits contributing to the identification of possible MA deposits in other seabed locations.

Deliverable: D14 - Geologic characteristics of the hosting areas of MA deposits (Technical Report)

 Task 3.4. A quantitative assessment of the identified MA deposits

Description / Methodology: The purpose of this task is to estimate the amount of MAs that potentially may be extracted from the relative deposits. This assessment will be based on the information acquired from the previous tasks and the application of 3D models in every study area. The used methodology together with the application of the appropriate software for spatial analysis (e.g., ArcGIS^®, AutoCAD^®, Surfer^®, etc) will subsequently lead to the calculation of MAs total volume.

Deliverable: D15- Quantification of the identified MA deposits (Technical Report).