Polymetallic Nodules Surface Paradox

Computational analysis of maintenance mechanisms for deep-ocean nodule surface occurrence

Key Finding

Bioturbation is the dominant mechanism maintaining polymetallic nodules at the sediment surface, with a main effect of 0.118 on surface fraction -- 14x larger than seismic and 12x larger than current erosion effects. Monte Carlo analysis across 500 parameter combinations identifies bioturbation-dominated regimes in 36.6% of parameter space.

Burial Timescale Analysis

Paradox Ratio (sed/growth)600x
Sedimentation Rate3.0 mm/kyr
Bio-advection Rate3.5 mm/kyr
Net Burial Velocity-0.13 cm/kyr (upward)
Pure Burial Time16.7 kyr
Critical Bio Rate2.2 mm/kyr
Peclet Number0.312
Surface Stable?Yes

Mechanism Main Effects

Factorial Analysis (Surface Fraction)

Dominant Mechanism Regimes (n=500)

Surface Retention vs Sedimentation Rate

Parameter Correlations with Surface Retention