The BGS Predictive Seabed Sediments UK v1 dataset includes digital maps of seabed sediment (SBS) composition across the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS). The dataset includes one classified SBS map (Folk sediment class; vector), and three percentage-sediment maps (rasters) giving the proportions of gravel, sand, and mud. The dataset is generated using a machine learning algorithm known as a Distributional Random Forest (DRF). The model uses input data to predictively classify what seabed sediments are most likely to be the dominant sediment present. It does so, using more than 38,000 seabed sediment samples (collated from various sources) with measurements of the proportion of mud, sand and gravel from locations across the study area. The predictions are constrained against covariate variables that are known to influence which sediment is most likely to occur. These include bathymetry data morphometric derivatives (at multiple spatial scales), as well as hydrodynamic data layers (currents and tidal). The dataset was reviewed via a qualitative assessment (QA) protocol by subject-area experts (e.g. contrasting with previous mapping, and local examples of higher-resolution data and mapping), and following methodological improvements based on this feedback, updated SBS map products were prepared. The dataset is presented at a national-scale, with a spatial resolution of approximately 110m, covering the UKCS (slightly modified UKCS area based on data availability).

This Offshore Quaternary dataset shows the distribution of interpreted lithostratigraphic units within the shallow subsurface. Large areas of the UK offshore are covered, at a scale of 1:250 000. This dataset was originally published between 1984 and 1992, as a series of paper map sheets. This is the first time that the Quaternary Geology 1:250 000 maps have been made available in digital format. Information from the original map sheets have been included in the attribute fields in this dataset, including a lithological description for each formation. Additional data has also been provided where it was deemed to add value. The BGS lexicon code for each formation has been supplied, so users can research any formation of interest. The maximum and minimum age of each formation, in a variety of formats, has also been added. This key information was sourced from Stoker et al (2011). Our understanding of the Quaternary lithostratigraphy is evolving due to the increased data collection associated with renewable energy development. However, no formal update of the regional lithostratigraphic framework has been completed at time of release. This dataset therefore reflects the understanding at the time of original publication. Inaccuracies in the dataset may have since been resolved and the level of uncertainty regarding the age or character of a formation may have changed. Nonetheless, this dataset contains valuable information, and this digital version will help facilitate access to this for users.

High velocity friction experiments. In this study, new samples recovered by IODP (Integrated Ocean Drilling Program) Exp. 362 from incoming Indian plate sediments will be used to investigate the frictional behavior of these sediments en-route to the plate boundary interface. The UK IODP Moratorium award will be used to achieve 5 Strategic Objectives: SO 1 - identify the characteristics of the sedimentary sections to optimize the sampling strategy for friction experiments based upon onboard sedimentology, petrology, geochemistry and in-situ logging profiles. This objective will benefit from the Exp. 362 Science Party work carried out during the cruise. SO 2 - acquire a quantitative data set of the mineral assemblages, fluid permeability, and porosity for each sample. SO 3 - measure their frictional dependence on slip, slip rate, slip velocity, and normal stress by performing experiments on the collected samples under deformation conditions typical of earthquakes using the high velocity rock friction apparatus SHIVA. SO 4 - monitor gas emission, humidity, and temperature variations during friction experiments using mass spectrometry, temperature and humidity measurements with the sensors installed on the rotary shear apparatus. SO 5 - analyse the experimental fault rock material using a multidisciplinary approach that involves microstructural analysis, mineralogy, and petrology so that proxy records may be reconstructed for plate interface seismic slip. Validate these against the seismological record. The ultimate goal is to incorporate the actual physical properties of the Sumatra-Andaman incoming sedimentary section within an improved theoretical earthquake rupture propagation model. This research will develop a new approach to the assessment of extreme near-trench tsunamogenic slip based on the analysis of incoming plate sediments. This approach is also applicable to other plate-boundary megathrusts (e.g. Japan Trench, Barbados). Future studies can also consider possible lateral variations in the lithological composition of the incoming plate/subduction plate boundary material.

Data from Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) surveys are archived in the MEDIN Data Archive Centre (DAC) for Geology and Geophysics at the British Geological Survey. This includes geology (Particle Size Analysis) data and multibeam backscatter data. Data are delivered via the BGS Offshore GeoIndex. Additional data are available on request enquiries@bgs.ac.uk. Other data types are archived with the other MEDIN DACs as appropriate (UKHO DAC for bathymetry data and DASSH DAC for biological data). https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/marine-conservation-zone-designations-in-england.

The Seabed Geology 10k: Bristol Channel is a digital geological map portraying the distribution of the different geological substrate units (either of bedrock or unlithified deposits) present on the seabed at a 1:10 000 scale. Additionally, to the Seabed Substrate layer, this dataset also includes i) a Geomorphology layer, revealing the presence and distribution of seabed morphological and geomorphological features and ii) a Structural Geology layer, that delineates the principal structural features observed at rockhead. The bedrock geology is divided into seven stratigraphical units: Pembroke Limestone Group (PEMB); Mercia Mudstone Group (MMG); Penarth Group (PNG); the Lias Groups' St Mary’s Well Bay (STM), Lavernock Shales (LVN) and the Porthkerry (PO) members; and the Inferior Oolite Group (INO). The Lexicon code of the stratigraphical units is provided in parentheses, as defined in the ‘BGS Lexicon of Named Rock Units’. The superficial deposits mapped are comprised of only marine sediments that were classified based on their grain size. However, Folk classification was not used to define the sediment classes. The sediments are divided into Gravel (V); Sand and Gravel (XSG); Sand (S); Sand and Mud (XSM); Mud (M); and Gravel, Sand and Mud (XVSM). The RCS code of the stratigraphical units is provided in parentheses, as defined in the ‘BGS Rock Classification Scheme’.

The British Geological Survey (BGS) holds an archive of multibeam backscatter data from BGS, the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and other organisations. The data are stored within the National Geoscience Data Centre (NGDC) as the Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN) Data Archive Centre (DAC) for geology and geophysics. The majority of the data were collected and processed for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) under the Civil Hydrography Programme (CHP). Backscatter image files for a survey can be downloaded (in GeoTIFF format) using the URL link provided or via the Deposited Data Search (https://webapps.bgs.ac.uk/services/ngdc/accessions/index.html?simpleText=backscatter&subjectList=3159). Backscatter data are useful for seabed characterisation for geological and habitat mapping. BGS works with the DAC for bathymetry data at the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) to archive the backscatter data. View and download the related bathymetry data via the ADMIRALTY Marine Data Portal: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/inspire-portal-and-medin-bathymetry-data-archive-centre.

Scanned geophysical records, reports and track charts from Tarmac (previously Lafarge Tarmac) aggregate industry marine surveys 1989 to 2004. The geophysical records include boomer seismic and side scan sonar data of varying quality. All records from 44 boxes of paper records have been scanned at BGS and are delivered online along with any additional digital file such as reports or data files. The data are stored as part of the National Geoscience Data Centre (NGDC) and the Marine Environmental Data and Information Network (MEDIN) Data Archive Centre (DAC) for Geology and Geophysics.

The BGS Seabed Geology: Offshore East Anglia digital map provides detailed and accurate characterisation of the seabed geology, based on seabed and shallow-subsurface data. This dataset incorporates three complementary map components (Substrate Geology, Structural Geology, and Geomorphology), provided as discrete layers for viewing within a Geographic Information System (GIS). The bedrock geology of the mapped area comprises Cretaceous age Chalk Group sedimentary rocks. These rocks crop out extensively at seabed across the southern and central parts of the dataset forming an extensive bedrock platform and Europe’s largest known offshore chalk reef. This reef has been designated the Cromer Shoal Chalk Beds Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ) owing to the range of unique floral and faunal habitats that it supports. The Chalk Group is covered across the central (partly) and southern parts of the dataset by natural superficial deposits that accreted during the Quaternary. These include preglacial delta bottom-set (Westkapelle Ground Formation) and delta top-set (Yarmouth Roads Formation); and glacial sediments and landforms that were deposited and formed during at least two separate phases of glaciation that inundated parts of the southern North Sea and adjacent East Anglia during the Middle Pleistocene (Anglian / Elsterian) and Late Pleistocene (Late Devensian / Late Weichselian). Collective geological evidence includes extensive areas of out-cropping subglacial till; the presence of largely concealed and infilled over-deepened (>100 m deep) subglacial tunnel valleys, ice-marginal moraines, and a glacially disrupted chalk surface that includes the development of incised meltwater channels, detached and transported glacitectonic bedrock rafts and megablocks. Post-glacial environments from the Late-Pleistocene – Holocene (prior to marine inundation) included fluvial and estuarine deposition, that together with variable infill of late-glacial valleys are included within the Botney Cut Formation. Holocene marine transgression flooded the region, with shallow marine sedimentation active through modern times resulting in the variable cover of unconsolidated marine sediments, as well as the distribution of extensive current-induced bedforms, e.g., sediment banks, sediment waves and fields of mega ripples which are recorded within the Seabed Geomorphology dataset. Each theme is provided as distinct layers for viewing within a Geographic Information System (GIS). The “Substrate Geology” layer shows the distribution of bedrock and unlithified superficial deposits present at the seabed (below a thin veneer of seabed sediments, ‘one-metre principle’ described below) as a series of polygons; The “Structural Geology” layer represents the structural features observed at rockhead as a polylines layer, and “Geomorphology” theme consists of points, polylines, and polygons layers to portray the main seabed morphological and geomorphological features.

This Web service provides layers containing offshore digital mapping datasets compiled by the British Geological Survey which have coverage across the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS), mostly at scales smaller than 1:250 000. It provides view and download services for the following datasets: - BGS Offshore Bedrock 250k - BGS Seabed Sediments 250k (including the Marine Hard Substrate Dataset) - BGS Offshore Quaternary 250k - 1:1 000 000 scale geological factor map: bedrock summary lithology - 1:1 000 000 scale geological factor map: Quaternary deposit summary lithology - 1:1 000 000 scale geological factor map: Quaternary deposit thickness - BGS Predictive Seabed Sediments (UK) For more information, contact BGS Marine Enquiries (offshoredata@bgs.ac.uk).

The BGS Seabed Sediments 250k dataset is vector data which reflects the distribution of seabed substrate types of the UK and some of its adjacent waters (the UK Exclusive Economic Zone, EEZ) at 1:250,000 scale. This comprehensive dataset provides a digital compilation of the paper maps published by BGS at the same scale, as well as additional re-interpretations from regional geological studies. The seabed is commonly covered by sediments that form a veneer or thicker superficial layer of unconsolidated material above the bedrock. These sediments are classified based on their grain size, which reflects the environment in which they were deposited. This information is important to a range of stakeholders, including marine habitat mappers, marine spatial planners and offshore industries (in particular, the dredging and aggregate industries). This dataset was primarily based on seabed grab samples of the top 0.1 m, combined with cores, dredge samples and sidescan sonar acquired during mapping surveys since the early 1970s. Variations in data density are reflected in the detail of the mapping. The sediment divisions on the map are primarily based on particle size analysis (PSA) of both surface sediment samples and the uppermost sediments taken from shallow cores. Sediments are classified according to the modified Folk triangle classification (Folk, 1954, Journal of Geology, Vol. 62, pp 344–359). The modified Folk diagram and classification used by BGS differs from that created by Folk (1954) in that the boundary between 'no gravel' and 'slightly gravelly' is changed from trace (0.05%) to 1% weight of particles coarser than -1Ø (2mm), shown below. The boundaries between sediment classifications or types are delineated using sample station particle size analyses and descriptions, seafloor topography derived from shallow geophysical and, where available, multibeam bathymetry, backscatter and side-scan sonar profiles. This dataset was produced for use at 1:250 000 scale. These data should not be relied on for local or site-specific geology.