Deep-Sea Sediment Transport and Mining

The deep-sea, covering more than 60% of the Earth's surface, is a realm of mystery. It hosts a diverse range of geological features, which are all subject to unique sedimentary processes. Deep-sea sediment transport, the movement of sediment particles across the ocean floor, is influenced by various factors such as bottom currents, turbidity currents, biological activity, and so on. The advent of deep-sea mining has introduced a new dimension to sediment transport. It involves the extraction of valuable minerals such as polymetallic nodules, seafloor massive sulfides, and crusts from the deep ocean floor. The potential environmental impact of deep-sea mining is a growing concern, as it can lead to the resuspension of sediments, alteration of benthic habitats, and the release of toxic elements. In conclusion, the study of deep-sea sediment transport and the implications of mining activities is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses geology, oceanography, and so on.

The deep seas are increasingly being targeted for resource extraction, leading to significant concerns over the environmental impact of sediment disturbance caused by mining activities. The problem lies in the potential for these activities to disrupt the delicate balance of deep-sea ecosystems, alter sediment transport dynamics, and lead to irreversible damage to marine environments. The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive framework for the sustainable management of deep-sea sediment transport and mining activities. This framework aims to minimize environmental impacts while ensuring the responsible extraction of deep-sea resources.

Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited.
This Research Topic seeks to delve into the latest advancements and development of deep-sea sediment transport and mining. Potential topics include but are not limited to:
• Hydrodynamics of Deep-Sea Sediment Transport;
• Environmental Impact Assessments of Deep-Sea Mining;
• Geotechnical Properties of Deep-Sea Sediments;
• Marine Geohazards Associated with Deep-Sea Mining;
• Modeling of Sediment Resuspension and Dispersion;
• Biological Communities and Bioturbation in Deep-Sea Sediment;
• Deep-Sea Sediment Core Analysis and the Marine Nepheloid Layer;
• Impacts of Climate Change on Deep-Sea Sediment Transport.

Keywords: Sediment, Mining, Turbidity Plume, Transport, Internal wave

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.