HVSR Analysis of Rockslide Seismic Signals to Assess the Subsoil Conditions and the Site Seismic Response

Abstract

Many Italian rock slopes are characterized by unstable rock masses that cause constant rock falls and rockslides. To effectively mitigate their catastrophic consequence thorough studies are required. Four velocimeters have been placed in the Torgiovannetto quarry area for an extensive seismic noise investigation. The study area (with an approximate surface of 200×100 m) is located near the town of Assisi (Italy) and is threatened by a rockslide. In this work, we present the results of the preliminary horizontal to vertical spectral ratio analysis of the acquired passive seismic data aimed at understanding the pattern of the seismic noise variation in case of stress state and/or weathering conditions (fluid content and microfracturing). The Torgiovannetto unstable slope has been monitored since 2003 by Alta Scuola of Perugia and the Department of Earth Sciences of the University of Firenze, after the observation of a first movement by the State Forestry Corps. The available data allowed an extensive comparison between seismic signals, displacement, and meteorological information. The measured displacements are well correlated with the precipitation trend, but unfortunately no resemblance with the seismic data was observed. However, a significant correlation between temperature data and the horizontal to vertical spectral ratio trend of the seismic noise could be identified. This can be related to the indirect effect of temperature on rock mass conditions and further extensive studies (also in the time frequency domain) are required to better comprehend this dependency. Finally, the continuous on-line data reveal interesting applications to provide near-real time warning systems for emerging potentially disastrous rockslides.