Wave-induced shallow slides and their features on the subaqueous Yellow River delta

Abstract

Slope instability processes occur widely on the underwater slopes of the Yellow River delta during storms. Roughly circular depressions on the upper delta front in water depths of 4 to 8 m have been detected by acoustic surveying and their processes were observed in the laboratory. This paper analyzes the properties of geomorphic and acoustic profiles of the upper delta front and compares the engineering geologic properties of samples from the disturbed and undisturbed areas. The results indicate that the weak superficial mass could oscillate with waves and the oscillation weakened the surrounding soil under the cyclic loading. The stratum was disturbed or even destroyed with depth, the area of the slide mass enlarged gradually, and finally a collapse depression formed.