High-resolution geophysical monitoring of moisture accumulation preceding slope movement

Overview

Modern tools for monitoring landslides deliver unprecedented insight into slope processes. Remotely sensed techniques, including satellite- and drone-based measurements, provide spatially extensive datasets, but are limited to the surface (or very near surface).

Conversely, point sensors and intrusive observations provide detailed subsurface information but only at discrete locations. 

Geophysical measurements can bridge the scale and resolution of these techniques to provide slope-scale, subsurface insight into slope processes that can complement and enhance remotely sensed and point observations.

This lecture explores the use of novel geophysical measurements to detect and image changes in saturation and strain at the slope-scale, in near-real-time, and with high spatiotemporal resolution.

An integrated landslide monitoring system, combining resistivity to detect changes in saturation and fibre optics to detect changes in strain, was deployed at the Hollin Hill Landslide Observatory in the UK. 

This is the first time this integrated approach has been deployed on an active landslide, providing a novel approach to observing slope-scale processes and unique insight into the precursory conditions of failure.

The lecture will showcase the details of the monitoring system, present the results of the integrated techniques, and consider the wider implications for such systems in early detection of failure and slope management.

After the event, there will be a networking session with drinks at the ICE Kendal's bar sponsored by AtkinsRéalis.

AtkinsRéalis

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