Embedment of the Sediment Layer Electrode Deployer (SLED): Results from 2006 Tests at Stennis Space Center

Abstract : In 2006, five field tests were made at Stennis Space Center of a Sediment Layer Electrode Deployer (SLED). The objective was to submerge an array of vertical-plate electrodes, with a total surface area of 18,580 cm squared into anoxic sediment layers by a method that may be accomplished from research vessels. The embedded electrodes would allow power generation from the Benthic Unattended Generator (BUG) technique. Towed-deployment and vibration-deployment techniques were investigated. The best results were incomplete embedment depths ranging from 17.8 cm to 30.5 cm. Problems for towed tests included an imbalance of forces between the front and rear sections of the SLED, and a catastrophic material failure during embedment with anchor flukes. Uneven embedment during vibration-deployment may have resulted from obstacles in the sediment, a sloping bottom effect, or greater resistance to vibration as the SLED embeds. Further research and development is necessary to find an effective embedment technique.