Shelf Sediment Transformation Index

Abstract

The paper examines the results of long-term monitoring studies of the physicochemical properties of Holocene silts in Kandalaksha Bay of the White Sea. Based on a comprehensive analysis of the ratios of the natural moisture content (W_n), moisture content of the liquid (upper plasticity) limit (W_L), and organic carbon content (C_org) for the depth of marine organomineral bottom sediments, it is concluded that the sediments can be separated by physicochemical indicators by introducing the sediment transformation index (I_st). Analysis of the distribution of sediment properties in terms of depth carried out in other water areas (e.g., in the Laptev Sea) suggests the universality of this indicator.