MSc Research

My Master thesis presented a morpho-structural study of the Marquês de Pombal Fault and surrounding area (>3300 km2), based on the interpretation of multi-channel seismic reflection profiles, high-resolution side-scan sonar image (TOBI) and bathymetry data. The outcomes of that study were: i) the partial quantification of the deformation along the Marquês de Pombal Fault, ii) digital terrain models of the study area, iii) slope maps and results of other surface analysis, iv) maps detailing the mass movements of the study area, v) a morpho-structural map of the Marquês de Pombal Fault area at a scale of 1:250 000.

The analysis of the data shows that the morphological differentiations of the study area are intimately associated with its structural compartmentalization and the tectonic evolution from the Middle Miocene to present time. Folding and reverse faulting of the Quaternary units along this structure indicate present-day tectonic activity. Gully-incised slope failures and submarine landslides are common features. One major complex submarine landslide, disrupting a total area of ~110 km2, was identified at the Marques de Pombal thrust front.