We apply fiber-optic sensing approaches, and specially Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) for imaging and monitoring the subsurface in a wide range of environments at depth scales varying from 10’s of meters to several kilometers. By using both existing telecommunication networks (dark fiber) and fit-for-purpose installations in boreholes and trenches, we tackle a variety of geoscience challenges, including geothermal development, volcano monitoring and urban geophysics, among others.
In recent years, the emergence and novel use of distributed fiber-optic sensing technologies and, in particular, Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), has revolutionized seismic data acquisition in many fields of application and environments, both on land and offshore. These technologies use laser-based interrogation units that convert conventional, telecommunication grade fiber-optic cables into super-dense, massive sensing arrays by measuring distributed and continuous changes in strain along the cable. In this way, DAS can be used to make measurements of subsurface physical parameters at a spatial resolution of a few meters over tens of kilometers and a temporal resolution of a few milliseconds in a very efficient manner.
In the Geophysical Imaging section of GFZ, we use fiber-optic sensing approaches for imaging and monitoring the subsurface in a wide range of environments at depth scales varying from 10’s of meters to several kilometers. We use both existing, unused telecommunication fiber-optic cables (dark fibers) available in populated areas, as well as fit-for-purpose installations in which we deploy our own fiber-optic cables down boreholes or in shallow horizontal trenches for targeted experiments. We design experiments, acquire data and develop codes and algorithms for data analysis and interpretation. Our research mostly focuses on the application of Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) for applied seismic imaging and monitoring applications. We often complement our experiments with the acquisition of temperature and absolute strain (deformation) data using Distributed Temperature Sensing (DTS) and Distributed Strain Sensing (DSS).
Our research topics are varied and include:
- Geoenergy and georesources (geothermal systems and geological storage, geotechnical monitoring of mining deposits)
- Characterization and monitoring of volcanoes and volcanic processes
Near-surface monitoring and characterization of the urban subsurface for geohazard mitigation and sustainable development
We lead and participate in a wide range of national, European and international projects and we work in field sites worldwide. We also operate and collaborate with other GFZ and external partners in several of the GFZ Regional Observatories and Focus sites, such as the Etna Volcano, Iceland and the Geophysical Observatory at the North Anatolian Fault (GONAF). Visit our projects pages to learn more!
