About Spektrum Geophysik
Seismic techniques for landslide investigations
Spektrum Geophysik AG is a recognized ETH Zurich spin-off company that envisions to bring the latest developments in engineering geophysics to practical applications.
Most information available for characterizing and monitoring unstable rock slopes are acquired by sensing displacements at the Earth’s surface, possibly missing critical structural changes at depth. We provide a solution to overcome this gap by measuring ambient vibrations on potentially unstable slopes and rock features. The vibrational properties provide information on the extent of the instability and the degradation of the rock mass – similar to structural health monitoring of large bridges and dams. The technique can be applied for real-time monitoring but also by using temporary and portable sensors for rapid characterization of the slope as a base for in-depth geological investigations.
Spektrum Geophysik AG was supported by the ETH Foundation and the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Lab of ETH Zurich.
Our Services
Characterization and mapping of rock instabilities
Using portable, highly sensitive seismometers, we provide rapid characterization and mapping of rock slopes and free-standing rock features. This helps you to understand the structural buildup of the site and provides a tool to plan and optimize further, more costly, in-depth investigations.
- Only hours of recordings needed
- Structural compartmentation of the instability
- Quick availability of results and not depending on surface deformations
- Ideal for planning and optimizing further, more costly, in-depth analyses (GNSS monitoring, geophysics, boreholes, ...)
- Completely non-destructive and non-invasive
Rock slope monitoring
We provide structural health monitoring of unstable rock slopes by using naturally occuring ambient vibrations and highly sensitive seismometers. The technique offers valuable complementary information to geodetic surveys to support your early warning service.
- Real-time monitoring of structural integrity
- Not depending on any line-of-sight and surface deformations
- Sensitive for structural changes (e.g. stiffness, stress conditions)
- Versatile field of applications, such as rock instabilities, permafrost, engineered structures, ...
- Provides fundamental information to assess the co-seismic behavior (e.g., resonant frequencies, seismic amplification, ...)
Our clients and partners
