Identification and thermal characteristics of linear discontinuities on a high-steep slope using UAV with thermal infrared imager

Abstract

The discontinuity system exerts significant control over slope deformation and failure. Nevertheless, the automatic identification of these discontinuities remains a challenging task, particularly concerning linear discontinuities. Current methodologies are insufficient in detecting linear discontinuities, let alone conducting an analysis of their internal parameters. Consequently, this leads to imprecise guidance for rock mass engineering endeavors. This paper proposes a method for identifying linear discontinuities and researching their thermal characteristics, leveraging thermal infrared technology in conjunction with unmanned aerial vehicles. A comprehensive 24-h thermal infrared survey was conducted on the rock mass situated at the dam site of the Xulong Power Station in Yunnan Province, China, and the thermal radiation law of rock mass at the dam site was preliminarily summarized. The feasibility of identifying the linear discontinuities through the thermal radiation characteristics has been demonstrated. Furthermore, the correlation between discontinuity parameters and their thermal characteristics is established. The results indicated that the thermal characteristics of linear discontinuities (faults and joints) are closely related to their physical and geometric parameters. These findings enable the study of rock mass weathering and inference of the internal characteristics of discontinuities, thereby facilitating the analysis of slope deformation and failure.