Geophysics in urban areas

Learning outcomes of the course, outlined according to the Dublin Descriptors.

A. Knowledge and understanding

The student will learn the fundamental concepts and principles related to applied geophysics and the most commonly used geophysical methodologies for subsurface characterization in urban contexts. Additionally, they will learn the methodologies used for assessing Seismic Hazard at both national and local levels. The student will understand the response of both urbanized and non-urbanized areas to seismic events and the methodologies useful for evaluating Local Seismic Response and Seismic Microzonation. Furthermore, the student will become familiar with operational modal analysis techniques for evaluating the dynamic response of buildings. Finally, the student will learn the software most commonly used for processing and analyzing geophysical data in urban studies.

B. Applying knowledge and understanding

The student will be able to apply the acquired knowledge of geophysical methodologies for subsurface soil characterization in urban areas, the assessment of Seismic Hazard, and Local Seismic Response in urban contexts, as well as Microzonation. Moreover, the student will be able to conduct field surveys using techniques such as HVSR (Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio), MASW (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves), and ReMi (Refraction Microtremor analysis), in addition to interpreting the results for subsurface modeling. Furthermore, the student will be capable of performing a dynamic characterization of buildings using an Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) approach.

C. Making judgements

The student will be encouraged to deepen the topics covered independently by preparing detailed reports on the techniques used and the procedures for analyzing geophysical data. Through involvement in practical case studies, they will be motivated to develop an independent approach in selecting and evaluating the most appropriate geophysical methodologies for the specific challenges of urban areas. Additionally, critical discussions with peers and the instructor will be strongly promoted, allowing the student to reflect on their learning path and continuously monitor their progress.

D. Communication skills

Active participation in lessons, consultation of recommended study materials, and the drafting of technical-scientific reports will help the student develop the ability to communicate and argue clearly and precisely, both in written and oral forms, regarding the methodologies used, analysis procedures, and results of geophysical analyses. The student will be able to use rigorous technical-scientific language appropriate to the context of applied geophysics.

E. Learning skills

Through practical exercises, the drafting of technical-scientific reports, and the application of geophysical investigation methodologies, the student will be guided to improve their study methods. They will be able to independently tackle new topics related to urban geophysics, recognizing the prerequisites necessary to understand new tools and applied geophysical analysis techniques.

21 hours (3CFU) of frontal lessons

36 hours (3CFU) of field and laboratory activities

Information for students with disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disorders (SLDs)

In order to ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, interested students can request a personal meeting to plan any compensatory and/or exemption measures, based on the educational objectives and specific needs.

It is also possible to contact the CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration - Services for Disabilities and/or SLDs) reference professor of our Department, Prof. Giorgio De Guidi.

Seismic Risk and Seismic Hazard, Building Vulnerability, Exposure, System Vulnerability.  • Seismic Hazard Assessment: deterministic approach and probabilistic approach.  • Criteria for the evaluation of the Design Earthquake. • Local Seismic Hazard and Seismic-Induced Effects: effects due to heterogeneity, presence of geometric and topographic irregularities, presence of tectonic structures, and cavities.  • Seismic Microzonation, local geology, and assessment of ground conditions.  • Evaluation of Local Seismic Response.  • Microtremors, Nakamura Technique, Spectral Ratios (HVSR).  • Practical exercise on sampling techniques and seismic signal processing.  • Practical exercise on the use of software for modeling Local Seismic Response.  • Differences and issues between Field Geophysics and Urban Geophysics.  • Geophysical methodologies for soil characterization in urban areas: traditional, innovative, invasive, and non-invasive techniques.  • Fields of application, limitations, and potential of the main geophysical methodologies in urban contexts.  • Seismic methods: Cross-hole test, Down-hole test, Up-Hole test, MASW, ReMi (Refraction Microtremor analysis), Seismic Tomography.  • Practical exercise on MASW and Refraction Microtremor surveys.  • Dynamic characterization and structural monitoring of buildings of historical, artistic, and monumental interest through OMA (Operational Modal Analysis) techniques based on the analysis of vibrational measurements (evaluation of modal parameters and HSSR technique).

M  Modellazione del sottosuolo con la geofisica applicata alle onde di superficie – Faustino Cetraro – editore EPC;

2.     Manuale pratico di risposta sismica locale – Luca Nori e Paolo Di Marcantonio – editore EPC;

3.     Manuale di Geofisica di Campagna – Carmelo Gaudiosi – editore Stampe a contatto-

4. Geofisica applicata. Con particolare riferimento alle prospezioni sismiche, elettriche, elettromagnetiche e geotermiche. M. Corrao e G. Coco, 2021 - Flaccovio Dario editore

1. Local Seismic Response
2. HVSR and HSSR surveys
3. Nakamura Tecnique
4. Masw methodology
5. ReMi Methodology