The project developed a submarine slope evaluation method for critical loading conditions based on well documented case histories. The focus was on geological, geotechnical, geophysical and the related failure mechanisms. The following tasks had been analyzed:
Task A: Study of Case Histories-Case histories of submarine slides in offshore areas worldwide. Appropriate numerical models had been selected for future analysis.
Task B: Submarine Slide Loading Conditions-Loading conditions and triggering mechanisms that exist at sites had been compiled and analyzed.
Task C: Regional In-Depth Studies: Scotian shelf/slope, Gulf of Mexico-Scotian shelf/slope, and Gulf of Mexico field cases had been examined in detail for their geo- conditions that can affect their slope stability. Data gaps for the Scotian shelf/slope had been identified for the investigation. Case study was conducted on the slope failure with the South Pass 70B platform in GOM.
Task D: Risk Analysis - Identification of dominant failure mechanisms to obtain annual probability with these events.
Task E: Design of Modeling Program.
Data was collected and summarized for the project from a number of different authors and research programs. Case histories and loading conditions were analyzed and a synopsis of the methods used by researchers of these failures. Studies of the Scotian shelf and GOM were done on geo-conditions which caused failures of the existing slopes in those areas. Failures were analyzed for existing slope stability equilibrium approach. Failure of a platform in the GOM was presented caused by Hurricane Camille. Geotechnical aspects of Gas Hydrates were described. Demonstration testing of centrifuge was presented to gain an insight to the mechanics of slope failure. Framework on Risk analysis was presented to identify dominant failure mechanisms. Basis of an experimental program has been designed and is operational.