Controlled micro-earthquake in Ticino: a successful test

Context

In brief

• Researchers trigger controlled earthquake in Ticino
• Tremors recorded but not perceptible on the surface
• Hyper-sensitive sensors capture even distant earthquakes

Key facts

• What: Controlled micro-earthquake
• When: Recently completed test
• Where: Gotthard Massif, Ticino
• Who: RWTH Aachen University, ETH Zurich, INGV
• Amount: Not specified

For the first time, researchers have triggered a controlled earthquake in the Gotthard Massif, Ticino. The test was a success, announced today the RWTH Aachen University (in Germany), which participated in the experiment. For several days, researchers from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH), RWTH Aachen University, and the Italian National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) have injected high-pressure water into a fault zone near the «Bedrettolab», an underground laboratory set up in an old construction gallery of the Furka tunnel.

The goal was to modify, in a controlled manner, the tension between the rocks and thus trigger microseisms. The experiment succeeded: an entire series of small tremors were recorded. These tiny earthquakes were not perceptible on the surface. Hundreds of hyper-sensitive sensors had been placed near the fault. According to RWTH Aachen University, these devices are so sensitive that they recorded the earthquake that occurred on April 20 in Japan directly in the Bedrettolab.

Incredible results

Thanks to the experiment, researchers have been able to measure an earthquake at its origin and no longer on the surface, as is usually the case. The signals obtained are 'incredible', says Florian Amann, director of the project at the University of Aachen. Now we have unique data on the physics of earthquakes.

Project 'FEAR'

In the long term, the project, called 'FEAR', an English acronym for 'Fault Activation and Earthquake Rupture', should improve the predictability of earthquakes. Researchers want to better understand what happens before an earthquake occurs. A major earthquake is preceded by thousands of small seismic events whose evolution contains a lot of information, emphasizes Amann.

Precursory signals

So far, despite decades of research, no reliable precursory signal of an earthquake had been identified. Since it is not possible to wait for an earthquake to occur in the right place, it is artificially triggered, explained Stefan Wiemer of ETH Zurich to Keystone-ATS before the experiment.

Other experiments planned

These microseisms were followed online by three different teams. 'So many people are involved, we were naturally extremely tense and now this first great success: we still have to realize it', indicated Amann, quoted in the press release. Currently, the water that was injected at high pressure into the fault is draining from the mountain. This concludes the current phase of the experiment. Further tests and the analysis of the enormous amounts of data collected are planned in the coming weeks and months.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The experiment conducted in the Gotthard massif could have significant implications for cross-border workers living and working in Ticino. The ability to predict earthquakes could improve the safety and stability of the region, making it a safer place to live and work. Furthermore, the research could lead to new technologies and methods for natural disaster prevention, which could also be useful for other regions of the world.

Comparison with the previous situation

Before this experiment, the ability to predict earthquakes was limited. Researchers could only record earthquakes after they had occurred, which limited their ability to prevent damage. With this new method, researchers can now study earthquakes at their point of origin, which could lead to a better understanding of earthquake physics and more effective disaster prevention methods.

Future scenarios

If researchers can improve earthquake predictability, it may be possible to develop early warning systems that could save lives and reduce material damage. This could be particularly useful for cross-border workers living in seismically active areas, such as Ticino. Additionally, the research could lead to new technologies for constructing safer and more earthquake-resistant buildings, which could improve the quality of life for everyone living in the region.

Data analysis

The analysis of the vast amounts of data collected during the experiment could lead to new discoveries about earthquake physics. Researchers may discover new patterns and trends that could be used to improve earthquake predictability. Furthermore, data analysis could lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms that lead to earthquakes, which could be useful for the development of new technologies and methods for disaster prevention.

International collaboration

The experiment was conducted in collaboration between researchers from various international institutions, including RWTH Aachen University, ETH Zurich, and INGV. This international collaboration could lead to better sharing of knowledge and resources, which could accelerate progress in earthquake research. Additionally, the collaboration could lead to new research and development opportunities for researchers worldwide.

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Key points

What cross-border workers should do

For cross-border workers living and working in Ticino, it is important to be aware of the potential implications of this experiment. It is advisable to stay informed about the latest research news and any future developments. Additionally, cross-border workers should be prepared for any seismic emergencies, ensuring they have an emergency plan and know the safety procedures in case of an earthquake.

Concrete procedures

1. Stay informed: Cross-border workers should stay informed about the latest research news and any future developments. This can be done through local media, research institution websites, and local authorities. 2. Emergency plan: Cross-border workers should have an emergency plan in case of an earthquake. This plan should include safety procedures, meeting points, and emergency contacts. 3. Preparation: Cross-border workers should be prepared for any seismic emergencies. This can include creating an emergency kit, knowing safety procedures, and participating in emergency drills. 4. Collaboration: Cross-border workers should collaborate with local authorities and research institutions to stay informed about the latest news and to contribute to the research.

Useful tools

For cross-border workers who want to stay informed about the latest research news and any future developments, there are several useful tools available. These include:

• Research institution websites: The websites of research institutions, such as RWTH Aachen University, ETH Zurich, and INGV, provide updated information on research and experiment results.
• Local media: Local media, such as newspapers and radio stations, provide updated information on the latest research news and any future developments.
• Local authorities: Local authorities, such as municipalities and regions, provide updated information on safety procedures and seismic emergencies.

Final CTA

For more information and to stay updated on the latest research news, visit our calculator and discover how this experiment could influence your daily life as a cross-border worker.

Source: ticinonews.ch