No abstract

Marine mining is the ocean's new exploration frontier. The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the region over which the respective coastal states hold sovereign rights for exploration, exploitation, conservation and management of natural, living or non-living, resources. The Brazilian EEZ has a rough oceanic area of 4.5 million square kilometers and is consecrated by the word "Blue Amazon", an area adjacent to the Brazilian mainland, which corresponds to 52% of the country's land area. Knowing the resources of such a large area is a strategic issue concerning the country's development. This work aims to determine the physical and geoacoustic properties (Vp, density, acoustic impedance) of polymetallic crusts from different areas along the Brazilian coast and to correlate with its chemical analysis. The first were measured in two different directions, parallel and orthogonal to the layering of the samples, in order to determine anisotropic effects related to the sample's framework. The correlation of the data will allow the analysis of the acoustic response of the samples to different frequencies indicating how the sample's chemical composition affects its acoustic response. Since the investigation of the seafloor is basically conducted using acoustic geophysical methods, the results of this research will allow deciding for the best procedure and technique to be used for future exploration of this resource.

This work aims to analyze and compare the sedimentological data of Ellsworth Mountains, West Antarctica: Patriot/Independence Hills and Union Glacier, and how sedimentological data can be used to infer sediment entrainment. Particular attention was concentrated on morainic deposits. Remote sensing data was used in the identifi cation of deposits and the ice fl ow; granulometric, morphoscopic, and geochemical analyses were applied to investigate the sedimentary origin and transport history. Sediment rich in Si Al, Fe, and Ca predominate in Independence Hills and Rossman Cove but Ca prevails in Elephant Head. CIA indicated low values, which depict low chemical weathering processes. X-ray diffraction reveals the presence of minerals that constitute the local rocks in the Union Glacier area, and from the unexposed basement rocks in Independence Hills. Principal Component Analysis and Cluster Analysis results suggest the sediment is related to the local rocks in the Union Glacier and distinct exotic sources in Independence Hills, associated with far-traveled sediment.It is also observed the infl uence of distinct processes of entrainment sediment on its granulometric and morphoscopic characteristics.

Abstract:The work aims to investigate the geomorphological and sedimentological aspects of Union Glacier area (79°45'00''S; 82°30'00''W), southern sector of Ellsworth Mountains. Geomorphological cartography based on 15 m ASTER (2010) satellite imagery and fi eld works were carried out during the Brazilian expedition (2011/2012) enabled the identifi cation of morainic formations: icecored hummock moraines, supraglacial moraines, and recession moraines in the interior of the valleys. With the exception of the latter one, all types of moraines have been developed on the blue-ice areas. The evidence for paleo wet-based glacial conditions is reconstructed from a range of geomorphological record, including exposed abrasion marks, striations and glaciotectonic deformation. This type of deformation is represented by lee sides of oversteep ening bedrock promontories which follow the tributaries of glaciers ice fl ow. Glacial sediments were collected from the moraines for granulometric and morphometric analyses. They show the prevalence of sandy gravel and sand texture, low quantity of fi ne fractions, and absence of attributes such as striated and faceted clasts, which indicate, on the other side, low-sediment transport capacity from the ice sheet bottom. It is inferred that the moraine debris are originated from local sources. Weathering action and constant katabatic winds are possibly the major agents of transport and alteration of the exposed sediments. The geomorphological features

The venue was a very good one. Its location was well-suited for easy walks to nearby restaurants; the meeting room was well-equipped and a good size for hosting the attendees; and having everyone stay at the same hotel made it conducive to fostering conversations with others outside of the main presentations, which is often where some of the most useful discussions take place.• II PANGEO was successful because of the number of participants from different countries, and because of the large number of students in attendance. I believe that the students found it very valuable to learn from more senior scientists and to exchange ideas with them.• The range of topics presented at the workshop was very good, covering a variety of areas of expertise. Suggestions (for III PANGEO):• I would recommend trying to schedule more time for hands-on measurement sessions at the observatory. If people are encouraged to bring their own theodolites to the workshop, they should have more opportunity to work with experienced observers who can advise them on their techniques and methods of recording their absolute measurements.• I would encourage more time for hands-on equipment sessions, or demonstrations of software that can be used to view, analyze, or process data. I think this is one of the most important ways we can build capacity in other countries who may not have the means to develop such tools themselves.• All of the attendees would benefit from having the full workshop schedule available to them before traveling to the workshop, so that they can plan their travel and presentations accordingly.