A new methodology for determining the long-term behavior of earth surface deformations from InSAR results

Abstract

The InSAR method is an effective method of presenting the temporal change and behavior characteristics of surface deformations to users and monitoring deformations. In general, it is possible to determine the spatial distribution and magnitude of surface deformations using InSAR analysis results. However, more detailed analyses should be performed to reveal and interpret the long-term behavior of deformations from these results. It is especially important to classify deformation velocities and present the temporal change and behavior characteristics of deformations by analyzing the densities of these classes and their periodic changes. This study developed a new methodology and software to present the temporal change and behavior characteristics of deformations to users. With the new methodology and software developed, values such as time-dependent increasing/decreasing trend of deformations, continuity, velocity value and class, and areal ratio/density can be determined and long-term behavior characteristics of deformations can be revealed. It is possible to make more reliable predictions of future behavior by considering the current increasing or decreasing trend of deformation behavior. The methodology and software developed were used to monitor surface deformations at the dump site of Kangal/Kalburçayırı open-pit coal mine, and the results were discussed. Owing to the method developed, deformation behavior was determined, and the prospective support heel precaution was taken. The new situation and deformation behavior that occurred as a result of this precaution were examined with the same methodology and software, and the success of the support heel was discussed.