What’s the top hat there? - A method for the quantification and comparison of subsurface bodies

Quantification and comparison of 3D bodies is a scientific aim in many fields, such as medical diagnostics, computer graphics and biochemistry. We propose a methodology for the shape quantification in the context of natural subsurface structures: Dimensions, gradients and curvatures are determined on cross-sections along and across the horizontal main axis of salt structures. The acquired statistics of the dimensions are characteristic for the respective type of geological body, providing insight into the anisotropy of structures, the potential existence of overhangs and the geological processes that shaped the top of an evaluated structure. The statistics of the gradient and curvature carry information on the appearance of the outline and sphericity of the assessed structures. A total of 240 intrusive salt structures from the North German Basin have been analyzed. The statistical properties allow to cluster them into body types which correspond to regular geometrical end members that are linked to distinct formation processes.