Spektrum Geophysik AG

We map and monitor unstable rock slopes by using ambient vibration technologies. Investigating and monitoring unstable rock slopes relies on surface displacement measurements. However, surface displacements do not necessarily represent the kinematics at depth. Some instabilities do not show any or just very small displacements over several years, making it difficult to reliably map their extent and internal degradation. This leads to long early-warning times and an inefficient use of resources, as monitoring systems and stabilization works are based on insufficient geological models. Our solution is to record, analyze and interpret ambient vibrations, which are naturally occurring small vibrations of any structure, such as unstable rock slopes. The characteristics of these vibrations are depending on the structural properties of the rock and, thus, provide information on the “state-of-health”. We use commercial current state-of-the-art vibrational sensors and our signal processing routines combined with field expertise to rapidly provide a seismic characterization, mapping, and monitoring of landslides and other geological structures. Our services are complementary to other geodetic and geotechnical methods or can be used to optimize other monitoring systems. We were founded as a recognized spin-off company from ETH Zurich and envision to bring the latest developments in engineering geophysics to practical applications. Interested? We are happy to showcase our services and explain you the benefits and limitations of our methods.