Seismic and Geodetic Monitoring Network on Optical Fibers

Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is an innovative technology that utilizes existing optical fiber lines to perform dynamic soil deformation measurements (relative displacement or strain), using specific interrogation instruments. This technique allows for the collection of dynamic data (continuous time series) with sensitivity comparable to traditional seismic sensors, but over wider distances, up to 50 km per interrogator, with high spatial resolution at the meter level.

As part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), Mission 4 "Education and Research" - Component 2 "From Research to Enterprise," the European Union has funded the ITINERIS project proposal (Italian Integrated Environmental Research Infrastructures System), which aims to develop an integrated infrastructure for environmental research in Italy by systematizing the main national research infrastructures of environmental relevance (including SMINO), promoting scientific excellence and international cooperation.

To achieve the objectives of ITINERIS, the Seismological Research Center (CRS) of OGS has purchased six units of the iDAS optical interrogation model (intelligent Distributed Acoustic Sensor). These devices will be integrated into the existing regional communication infrastructures. The use of existing standard linear optical fibers of various kilometers in length will allow for both cost reduction and the possibility of continuously and thoroughly monitoring the ground motion associated with seismic phenomena.

The integration of DAS systems into the Monitoring System of North-Eastern Italy (SMINO), managed by CRS, will enhance the monitoring infrastructure. This will significantly improve the detection and early warning capabilities of seismic phenomena, as well as ensure more effective monitoring of medium- and long-term deformations, such as subsidence. This represents a fundamental advancement for Civil Protection, increasing the capacity for response and mitigation of natural risks.

The large-scale application of DAS technology in urban and regional areas represents the first experiment of its kind in Italy and one of the first in Europe, with a positive impact on seismic risk management and territorial safety. A collaboration agreement is being defined between OGS and other local and regional entities to support Civil Protection in prevention and emergency response activities, promoting greater safety for the population.