Seismic Noise Azimuthal Spectral Ratios to Monitor Landslide Kinematics

Summary In this work, we explore the potential of seismic noise as a monitoring tool for landslide kinematic behavior. We monitored an earth slide with low-frequency seismometers and we collected ambient vibrations during two following stages characterized by different displacement rates and stress states of the involved media. Spectral ratios between signals collected on the sliding body and at stable locations suggest that polarization of seismic noise in the azimuthal plane is sensitive to the direction of joint sets and deformation areas created by slope accelerations and differential movements. As a consequence, the analysis of seismic noise polarization could be of valuable help for monitoring the landslide kinematics.