Vibracoring is an efficient technique for collecting cores in a range of marine sediments to moderate depths of penetration. Our vibracore system consists of a Rossfelder P-3 electric vibracorer, an optional buoyant frame, stainless steel core barrels with CAB (butyrate) liners, and a stainless steel core nose. The sample is retained in the core tube by a one-way valve at the top of the core that closes when penetration stops, and by a sheet-metal “core catcher” affixed to the core nose. 

 

The system can be used without a base, which allows us to access areas with large amounts of surface debris. Our divers can position the core manually in these environments if necessary. Depending on conditions, we may use an internal piston to assist with recovery and sample retention.

 

The liners are clear, allowing visual evaluation of the core in the field. They are left intact and full-length for transport to the processing area. The sample remains undisturbed from the time it is extracted until it is processed; it is never re-liquified or smeared in an extruding process. A portion of the liner is cut away with shears, revealing the sample.