Luca Schenato | Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR) (original) (raw)

Papers by Luca Schenato

Featured Application: Distributed fibre optic sensors for geo-hydrological applications: a compre... more Featured Application: Distributed fibre optic sensors for geo-hydrological applications: a comprehensive review about methodology, weaknesses, and strengths. Abstract: Distributed optical fibre sensing, employing either Rayleigh, Raman, or Brillouin scattering, is the only physical-contact sensor technology capable of accurately estimating physical fields with spatial continuity along the fibre. This unique feature and the other features of standard optical fibre sensors (e.g., minimal invasiveness and lightweight, remote powering/interrogating capabilities) have for many years promoted the technology to be a promising candidate for geo-hydrological monitoring. Relentless research efforts are being undertaken to bring the technology to complete maturity through laboratory, physical models, and in-situ tests. The application of distributed optical fibre sensors to geo-hydrological monitoring is here reviewed and discussed, along with basic principles and main acquisition techniques. Among the many existing geo-hydrological processes, the emphasis is placed on those related to soil levees, slopes/landslide, and ground subsidence that constitute a significant percentage of current geohazards.

Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorit... more Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorities and community aiming at more appropriate and effective ways to manage hydro-meteorological risks 1 . In this framework, risk communication should not only start during the build-up of the hazard, but also in pre-warning and 'peace' time and it contribute to better emergency preparedness. Lately, a rapid growth of interest emerges to enable citizens to inspect hazard-related processes on their territory 2 . From the risk managers perspective, substantial advantages of taking this citizen-based approach include (1) the opportunity to identify on a quick and 'relatively' low cost basis one or more risk components at different geographical locations and (2) the ability to provide a practical application for citizens interested in creating and communicating useful information toward establishing a better understanding of their territory. From the citizens perspectives, it provides the opportunity to generate benefit through increasing and encouraging interest for self-awareness as well as self-preparedness. However, the use of citizen-based information also bring forth the need to train and establish standardized forms, guidelines and tools, particularly if the data collected seek to be useful information for decision-making activities and emergency management 3 .

International Journal of Sustainable Materials and Structural Systems, 2013

The monitoring of the acoustic emissions (AEs) due to rock fracturing allows the detection of the... more The monitoring of the acoustic emissions (AEs) due to rock fracturing allows the detection of the rockfall precursor signals, leading to a strong improvement of the real time assessment of the induced risk. A network of piezoelectric sensors (PZTs) provides reliable AE data, as testified by a series of applications in non-destructive testing, but PZTs are strongly affected by lightings and electromagnetic interference. In order to avoid such PZT drawbacks and limitations and therefore to allow the rock fracturing monitoring in unstable slopes, two FOS architectures (referred to as fibre coil sensor and ferrule top cantilever) have been recently proposed in previous works from the same authors. In this paper, the two sensors are tested in a more realistic scenario, by monitoring AE in a rock block in which crack is induced by highly expansive mortar; complementary activities, mainly aimed at the recognition of the type of expected signals and optimisation of the sensor array in the framework of the monitoring system, are also described here.

OFC/NFOEC 2008 - 2008 Conference on Optical Fiber Communication/National Fiber Optic Engineers Conference, 2008

The effects of random birefringence in narrowband parametric amplification for slow light has bee... more The effects of random birefringence in narrowband parametric amplification for slow light has been numerically investigated showing that the reduction of the mean gain directly causes the reduction of the mean delay for small birefringence.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 2, 2015

ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in... more ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the south-west flank of Mt. Ganderberg, north of Bolzano, Italy. The landslide stretches from an altitude of 2,330 m a.s.l. down to the River Passer at 1,170 m, with an estimated shear surface depth of 100 m. The area is characterized by typical Alpine morphological features and preserves traces of the last glaciation and clear evidences of recent gravitational phenomena. The DGSD induced some collateral mass movements such has rotational and translational slides. Since 2007 the DGSD has been monitored through a network of 20 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) benchmarks. The results showed a different rate of displacement, between the north and the south sectors that allowed to define the kinematics patterns of the landslide, a key point to forecast future scenarios and to support risk managers and public administration in the definition of the countermeasures for risk mitigation.

Journal of the European Optical Society: Rapid Publications, 2012

Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events ... more Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events are addressed and experimentally characterized. Both sensors are based on interferometric schemes, with the first one consisting of a fiber coil used as sensing element and the second one exploiting a micro-machined cantilever carved on the top of a ferrule. Preliminary comparisons with standard piezo-electric transducers shows the viability of such FOSs for acoustic emission monitoring in rock masses.

ROL, 2014

Landslide monitoring is usually linked to a complex physical system with several parameters and u... more Landslide monitoring is usually linked to a complex physical system with several parameters and uncertainties. Different instruments are located and set up on field, but a simple, continuous and efficient integration is compulsory for an acceptable warning support.

ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions (AEs) in r... more ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions (AEs) in rockfall events are proposed and experimentally characterized. The tests show the feasibility of the addressed FOSs for the acoustic emission sensing in rocks.

Rendiconti Online della Società Geologica Italiana, 2016

Computers and Geosciences, 2014

ABSTRACT In the Small Dolomites group (Eastern Italian Alps), the Rotolon catchment is affected b... more ABSTRACT In the Small Dolomites group (Eastern Italian Alps), the Rotolon catchment is affected by a landslide that historically threatened the nearby village of Recoaro Terme. After the last re-activation on November 2010, the need to deploy devices to monitor deformations on the unstable slope became of paramount importance. This paper deals with the methodology, the techniques and the integrated services adopted for the design and the realization of a web-based platform for automatic and continuous monitoring of the Rotolon landslide. The choice of a web environment simplifies data collection, while a remote control permits technical maintenance and calibration on instruments and sensors in the field. Data management is straightforward on a single server, with the dataset being continuously updated. There is a user-friendly web interface which allows a practical up-to-date solution for decision-makers. This web-based monitoring platform represents the first step in the implementation of a complete early warning system.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 2, 2015

ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in... more ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the south-west flank of Mt. Ganderberg, north of Bolzano, Italy. The landslide stretches from an altitude of 2,330 m a.s.l. down to the River Passer at 1,170 m, with an estimated shear surface depth of 100 m. The area is characterized by typical Alpine morphological features and preserves traces of the last glaciation and clear evidences of recent gravitational phenomena. The DGSD induced some collateral mass movements such has rotational and translational slides. Since 2007 the DGSD has been monitored through a network of 20 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) benchmarks. The results showed a different rate of displacement, between the north and the south sectors that allowed to define the kinematics patterns of the landslide, a key point to forecast future scenarios and to support risk managers and public administration in the definition of the countermeasures for risk mitigation.

Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering, 2012

ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfal... more ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events are proposed and experimentally characterized. While both sensors are interferometric, the first one use a fiber coil as sensing element, whereas the second sensor exploits a micro-machined cantilever carved on the top of a ferrule. Preliminary experimental comparison with standard piezo-electric transducers shows the viability of such FOSs for acoustic emission monitoring in rock masses.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 3, 2014

Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long ... more Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long time. The first written proof of a landslide occurrence dates back to 1798. The last re-activation occurred in November 2010 when, after a cumulative rainfall of 637 mm in 12 days, a mass of approximately 320,000 m 3 detached from the unstable slope and evolved into a debris flow that ran for about 4 km along the channel, threatening the villages along the stream. Since then, the design and the realization of an early-warning system was considered of primary importance, in order to mitigate the risk for the valley inhabitants. A monitoring network consisting of 42 topographic benchmarks and 6 wire extensometers was installed and a warning system was deployed along four sections of the channel. The latter consists of 3 pendulum sections and a trip-wire section. Alarm sirens installed near the settlements are activated when the warning system is triggered by a debris-flow event, guaranteeing some minutes lead time to the local population. In this way the inhabitants could evacuate in time and reach safe areas thus reducing the risk. A Decision Support System (DSS) is also integrated with the deployed sensors, therefore technicians may support crisis response with a user-friendly instrument. Abstract 8 Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for 9 long time. The first written proof of a landslide occurrence dates back to 1798. The last 10 re-activation occurred in November 2010 when, after a cumulative rainfall of 637 mm in 11 12 days, a mass of approximately 320,000 m 3 detached from the unstable slope and evolved 12 into a debris flow that ran for about 4 km along the channel, threatening the villages along the 13 stream. Since then, the design and the realization of an early-warning system was considered 14 of primary importance, in order to mitigate the risk for the valley inhabitants. A monitoring 15 network consisting of 42 topographic benchmarks and 6 wire extensometers was installed and 16 a warning system was deployed along four sections of the channel. The latter consists of 3 17 pendulum sections and a trip-wire section. Alarm sirens installed near the settlements are 18 activated when the warning system is triggered by a debris-flow event, guaranteeing some 19 minutes lead time to the local population. In this way the inhabitants could evacuate in time 20 and reach safe areas thus reducing the risk. A Decision Support System (DSS) is also 21 integrated with the deployed sensors, therefore technicians may support crisis response with a 22 user-friendly instrument. 23 24 Keywords 25 Early-warning system Á DGSD monitoring Á Rotolon catchment Á Risk reduction 26 27 28 42 À villages downstream. After the last event occurred in 43 À November 2010, an automated monitoring and warning 44 À system was designed and installed.

Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorit... more Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorities and community aiming at more appropriate and effective ways to manage hydro-meteorological risks 1 . In this framework, risk communication should not only start during the build-up of the hazard, but also in pre-warning and 'peace' time and it contribute to better emergency preparedness. Lately, a rapid growth of interest emerges to enable citizens to inspect hazard-related processes on their territory 2 . From the risk managers perspective, substantial advantages of taking this citizen-based approach include (1) the opportunity to identify on a quick and 'relatively' low cost basis one or more risk components at different geographical locations and (2) the ability to provide a practical application for citizens interested in creating and communicating useful information toward establishing a better understanding of their territory. From the citizens perspectives, it provides the opportunity to generate benefit through increasing and encouraging interest for self-awareness as well as self-preparedness. However, the use of citizen-based information also bring forth the need to train and establish standardized forms, guidelines and tools, particularly if the data collected seek to be useful information for decision-making activities and emergency management 3 .

Abstract According to the aim of the CHANGES network, an EU funded project, research is carried o... more Abstract According to the aim of the CHANGES network, an EU funded project, research is carried out towards the improvement of the emergency management strategies for hydro-meteorological hazards under the effects of climate and the pressure of socio-economic changes. Aim supported on the need to enhance local resilience to these hazards under different scenarios, if possible by means of a multi-disciplinary and multi-hazard approach. Both requirements recognized on the scientific and practical community. In this context, ...

A large DSGDS (Deep-Seated Gravitational Slope Deformation) which extends on an area of 3.75 km2 ... more A large DSGDS (Deep-Seated Gravitational Slope Deformation) which extends on an area of 3.75 km2 affects the southwest flank of Mount Ganderberg some 40 km north of Bolzano. The gravitational sagging of the slope is generating a wide field of tension cracks in the crown area where a rock slab of about 800.000 m3 shows clear precursory signs of possible detachment.
In 1401 a rock avalanche detaching from the same area dammed the Passer River thus creating a 35 m deep lake which through sequential breaching caused many casualties in the villages downstream. Using geomorphological survey and historical analysis it was possible to estimate the volume of the landslide deposit in 2 × 106 m3.
In this study the historical event is back-analyzed using the 2D code DAN-W in order to select the proper soil parameters to use in the modelling of the present potential rock avalanche. Then a 3D modelling is carried out using DAN3D software to evaluate the run-out scenario and the shape of the natural dam. Owing to the relevant discharge of the Passer River, a 2 × 106 m3 lake might be quickly filled. This can cause the breaching and subsequent collapse of the landslide dam with great risk and potentially heavy damages for the downstream population.

Featured Application: Distributed fibre optic sensors for geo-hydrological applications: a compre... more Featured Application: Distributed fibre optic sensors for geo-hydrological applications: a comprehensive review about methodology, weaknesses, and strengths. Abstract: Distributed optical fibre sensing, employing either Rayleigh, Raman, or Brillouin scattering, is the only physical-contact sensor technology capable of accurately estimating physical fields with spatial continuity along the fibre. This unique feature and the other features of standard optical fibre sensors (e.g., minimal invasiveness and lightweight, remote powering/interrogating capabilities) have for many years promoted the technology to be a promising candidate for geo-hydrological monitoring. Relentless research efforts are being undertaken to bring the technology to complete maturity through laboratory, physical models, and in-situ tests. The application of distributed optical fibre sensors to geo-hydrological monitoring is here reviewed and discussed, along with basic principles and main acquisition techniques. Among the many existing geo-hydrological processes, the emphasis is placed on those related to soil levees, slopes/landslide, and ground subsidence that constitute a significant percentage of current geohazards.

Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorit... more Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorities and community aiming at more appropriate and effective ways to manage hydro-meteorological risks 1 . In this framework, risk communication should not only start during the build-up of the hazard, but also in pre-warning and 'peace' time and it contribute to better emergency preparedness. Lately, a rapid growth of interest emerges to enable citizens to inspect hazard-related processes on their territory 2 . From the risk managers perspective, substantial advantages of taking this citizen-based approach include (1) the opportunity to identify on a quick and 'relatively' low cost basis one or more risk components at different geographical locations and (2) the ability to provide a practical application for citizens interested in creating and communicating useful information toward establishing a better understanding of their territory. From the citizens perspectives, it provides the opportunity to generate benefit through increasing and encouraging interest for self-awareness as well as self-preparedness. However, the use of citizen-based information also bring forth the need to train and establish standardized forms, guidelines and tools, particularly if the data collected seek to be useful information for decision-making activities and emergency management 3 .

International Journal of Sustainable Materials and Structural Systems, 2013

The monitoring of the acoustic emissions (AEs) due to rock fracturing allows the detection of the... more The monitoring of the acoustic emissions (AEs) due to rock fracturing allows the detection of the rockfall precursor signals, leading to a strong improvement of the real time assessment of the induced risk. A network of piezoelectric sensors (PZTs) provides reliable AE data, as testified by a series of applications in non-destructive testing, but PZTs are strongly affected by lightings and electromagnetic interference. In order to avoid such PZT drawbacks and limitations and therefore to allow the rock fracturing monitoring in unstable slopes, two FOS architectures (referred to as fibre coil sensor and ferrule top cantilever) have been recently proposed in previous works from the same authors. In this paper, the two sensors are tested in a more realistic scenario, by monitoring AE in a rock block in which crack is induced by highly expansive mortar; complementary activities, mainly aimed at the recognition of the type of expected signals and optimisation of the sensor array in the framework of the monitoring system, are also described here.

OFC/NFOEC 2008 - 2008 Conference on Optical Fiber Communication/National Fiber Optic Engineers Conference, 2008

The effects of random birefringence in narrowband parametric amplification for slow light has bee... more The effects of random birefringence in narrowband parametric amplification for slow light has been numerically investigated showing that the reduction of the mean gain directly causes the reduction of the mean delay for small birefringence.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 2, 2015

ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in... more ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the south-west flank of Mt. Ganderberg, north of Bolzano, Italy. The landslide stretches from an altitude of 2,330 m a.s.l. down to the River Passer at 1,170 m, with an estimated shear surface depth of 100 m. The area is characterized by typical Alpine morphological features and preserves traces of the last glaciation and clear evidences of recent gravitational phenomena. The DGSD induced some collateral mass movements such has rotational and translational slides. Since 2007 the DGSD has been monitored through a network of 20 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) benchmarks. The results showed a different rate of displacement, between the north and the south sectors that allowed to define the kinematics patterns of the landslide, a key point to forecast future scenarios and to support risk managers and public administration in the definition of the countermeasures for risk mitigation.

Journal of the European Optical Society: Rapid Publications, 2012

Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events ... more Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events are addressed and experimentally characterized. Both sensors are based on interferometric schemes, with the first one consisting of a fiber coil used as sensing element and the second one exploiting a micro-machined cantilever carved on the top of a ferrule. Preliminary comparisons with standard piezo-electric transducers shows the viability of such FOSs for acoustic emission monitoring in rock masses.

ROL, 2014

Landslide monitoring is usually linked to a complex physical system with several parameters and u... more Landslide monitoring is usually linked to a complex physical system with several parameters and uncertainties. Different instruments are located and set up on field, but a simple, continuous and efficient integration is compulsory for an acceptable warning support.

ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions (AEs) in r... more ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions (AEs) in rockfall events are proposed and experimentally characterized. The tests show the feasibility of the addressed FOSs for the acoustic emission sensing in rocks.

Rendiconti Online della Società Geologica Italiana, 2016

Computers and Geosciences, 2014

ABSTRACT In the Small Dolomites group (Eastern Italian Alps), the Rotolon catchment is affected b... more ABSTRACT In the Small Dolomites group (Eastern Italian Alps), the Rotolon catchment is affected by a landslide that historically threatened the nearby village of Recoaro Terme. After the last re-activation on November 2010, the need to deploy devices to monitor deformations on the unstable slope became of paramount importance. This paper deals with the methodology, the techniques and the integrated services adopted for the design and the realization of a web-based platform for automatic and continuous monitoring of the Rotolon landslide. The choice of a web environment simplifies data collection, while a remote control permits technical maintenance and calibration on instruments and sensors in the field. Data management is straightforward on a single server, with the dataset being continuously updated. There is a user-friendly web interface which allows a practical up-to-date solution for decision-makers. This web-based monitoring platform represents the first step in the implementation of a complete early warning system.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 2, 2015

ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in... more ABSTRACT A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the south-west flank of Mt. Ganderberg, north of Bolzano, Italy. The landslide stretches from an altitude of 2,330 m a.s.l. down to the River Passer at 1,170 m, with an estimated shear surface depth of 100 m. The area is characterized by typical Alpine morphological features and preserves traces of the last glaciation and clear evidences of recent gravitational phenomena. The DGSD induced some collateral mass movements such has rotational and translational slides. Since 2007 the DGSD has been monitored through a network of 20 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) benchmarks. The results showed a different rate of displacement, between the north and the south sectors that allowed to define the kinematics patterns of the landslide, a key point to forecast future scenarios and to support risk managers and public administration in the definition of the countermeasures for risk mitigation.

Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering, 2012

ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfal... more ABSTRACT Two fiber optic sensors (FOSs) for detection of precursory acoustic emissions in rockfall events are proposed and experimentally characterized. While both sensors are interferometric, the first one use a fiber coil as sensing element, whereas the second sensor exploits a micro-machined cantilever carved on the top of a ferrule. Preliminary experimental comparison with standard piezo-electric transducers shows the viability of such FOSs for acoustic emission monitoring in rock masses.

Engineering Geology for Society and Territory - Volume 3, 2014

Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long ... more Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long time. The first written proof of a landslide occurrence dates back to 1798. The last re-activation occurred in November 2010 when, after a cumulative rainfall of 637 mm in 12 days, a mass of approximately 320,000 m 3 detached from the unstable slope and evolved into a debris flow that ran for about 4 km along the channel, threatening the villages along the stream. Since then, the design and the realization of an early-warning system was considered of primary importance, in order to mitigate the risk for the valley inhabitants. A monitoring network consisting of 42 topographic benchmarks and 6 wire extensometers was installed and a warning system was deployed along four sections of the channel. The latter consists of 3 pendulum sections and a trip-wire section. Alarm sirens installed near the settlements are activated when the warning system is triggered by a debris-flow event, guaranteeing some minutes lead time to the local population. In this way the inhabitants could evacuate in time and reach safe areas thus reducing the risk. A Decision Support System (DSS) is also integrated with the deployed sensors, therefore technicians may support crisis response with a user-friendly instrument. Abstract 8 Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for 9 long time. The first written proof of a landslide occurrence dates back to 1798. The last 10 re-activation occurred in November 2010 when, after a cumulative rainfall of 637 mm in 11 12 days, a mass of approximately 320,000 m 3 detached from the unstable slope and evolved 12 into a debris flow that ran for about 4 km along the channel, threatening the villages along the 13 stream. Since then, the design and the realization of an early-warning system was considered 14 of primary importance, in order to mitigate the risk for the valley inhabitants. A monitoring 15 network consisting of 42 topographic benchmarks and 6 wire extensometers was installed and 16 a warning system was deployed along four sections of the channel. The latter consists of 3 17 pendulum sections and a trip-wire section. Alarm sirens installed near the settlements are 18 activated when the warning system is triggered by a debris-flow event, guaranteeing some 19 minutes lead time to the local population. In this way the inhabitants could evacuate in time 20 and reach safe areas thus reducing the risk. A Decision Support System (DSS) is also 21 integrated with the deployed sensors, therefore technicians may support crisis response with a 22 user-friendly instrument. 23 24 Keywords 25 Early-warning system Á DGSD monitoring Á Rotolon catchment Á Risk reduction 26 27 28 42 À villages downstream. After the last event occurred in 43 À November 2010, an automated monitoring and warning 44 À system was designed and installed.

Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorit... more Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorities and community aiming at more appropriate and effective ways to manage hydro-meteorological risks 1 . In this framework, risk communication should not only start during the build-up of the hazard, but also in pre-warning and 'peace' time and it contribute to better emergency preparedness. Lately, a rapid growth of interest emerges to enable citizens to inspect hazard-related processes on their territory 2 . From the risk managers perspective, substantial advantages of taking this citizen-based approach include (1) the opportunity to identify on a quick and 'relatively' low cost basis one or more risk components at different geographical locations and (2) the ability to provide a practical application for citizens interested in creating and communicating useful information toward establishing a better understanding of their territory. From the citizens perspectives, it provides the opportunity to generate benefit through increasing and encouraging interest for self-awareness as well as self-preparedness. However, the use of citizen-based information also bring forth the need to train and establish standardized forms, guidelines and tools, particularly if the data collected seek to be useful information for decision-making activities and emergency management 3 .

Abstract According to the aim of the CHANGES network, an EU funded project, research is carried o... more Abstract According to the aim of the CHANGES network, an EU funded project, research is carried out towards the improvement of the emergency management strategies for hydro-meteorological hazards under the effects of climate and the pressure of socio-economic changes. Aim supported on the need to enhance local resilience to these hazards under different scenarios, if possible by means of a multi-disciplinary and multi-hazard approach. Both requirements recognized on the scientific and practical community. In this context, ...

A large DSGDS (Deep-Seated Gravitational Slope Deformation) which extends on an area of 3.75 km2 ... more A large DSGDS (Deep-Seated Gravitational Slope Deformation) which extends on an area of 3.75 km2 affects the southwest flank of Mount Ganderberg some 40 km north of Bolzano. The gravitational sagging of the slope is generating a wide field of tension cracks in the crown area where a rock slab of about 800.000 m3 shows clear precursory signs of possible detachment.
In 1401 a rock avalanche detaching from the same area dammed the Passer River thus creating a 35 m deep lake which through sequential breaching caused many casualties in the villages downstream. Using geomorphological survey and historical analysis it was possible to estimate the volume of the landslide deposit in 2 × 106 m3.
In this study the historical event is back-analyzed using the 2D code DAN-W in order to select the proper soil parameters to use in the modelling of the present potential rock avalanche. Then a 3D modelling is carried out using DAN3D software to evaluate the run-out scenario and the shape of the natural dam. Owing to the relevant discharge of the Passer River, a 2 × 106 m3 lake might be quickly filled. This can cause the breaching and subsequent collapse of the landslide dam with great risk and potentially heavy damages for the downstream population.

Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long ... more Severe instability processes have affected the Rotolon catchment (Eastern Italian Alps) for long time. The first written proof of a landslide occurrence dates back to 1798. The last re-activation occurred in November 2010 when, after a cumulative rainfall of 637 mm in 12 days, a mass of approximately 320,000 m3 detached from the unstable slope and evolved into a debris flow that ran for about 4 km along the channel, threatening the villages along the stream. Since then, the design and the implementation of an early-warning system was considered of primary importance, in order to mitigate the risk for the valley inhabitants. A monitoring network consisting of 42 topographic benchmarks and 6 wire extensometers was installed and a warning system was deployed along four sections of the channel. The latter consists of 3 pendulum sections and a trip-wire section. Alarm sirens installed near the settlements are activated when the warning system is triggered by a debris-flow event, guaranteeing some minutes lead time to the local population. In this way the inhabitants could evacuate in time and reach safe areas thus reducing the risk. A Decision Support System (DSS) is also integrated with the deployed sensors, therefore technicians may support crisis response with a user-friendly instrument

A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the sout... more A Deep-seated Gravitational Slope Deformation (DGSD) extends over an area of 3.75 km2 in the south-west flank of Mt. Ganderberg, north of Bolzano, Italy. The landslide stretches from an altitude of 2,330 m a.s.l. down to the River Passer at 1,170 m, with an estimated shear surface depth of 100 m. The area is characterized by typical Alpine morphological features and preserves traces of the last glaciation and clear evidences of recent gravitational phenomena. The DGSD induced some collateral mass movements such has rotational and translational slides. Since 2007 the DGSD has been monitored through a network of 20 Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) benchmarks. The results showed a different rate of displacement, between the north and the south sectors that allowed to define the kinematics patterns of the landslide, a key point to forecast future scenarios and to support risk managers and public administration in the definition of the countermeasures for risk mitigation.

Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorit... more Modern approaches for emergency management promote exchange of information between local authorities and community aiming at more appropriate and effective ways to manage hydro-meteorological risks 1 . In this framework, risk communication should not only start during the build-up of the hazard, but also in pre-warning and 'peace' time and it contribute to better emergency preparedness. Lately, a rapid growth of interest emerges to enable citizens to inspect hazard-related processes on their territory 2 . From the risk managers perspective, substantial advantages of taking this citizen-based approach include (1) the opportunity to identify on a quick and 'relatively' low cost basis one or more risk components at different geographical locations and (2) the ability to provide a practical application for citizens interested in creating and communicating useful information toward establishing a better understanding of their territory. From the citizens perspectives, it provides the opportunity to generate benefit through increasing and encouraging interest for self-awareness as well as self-preparedness. However, the use of citizen-based information also bring forth the need to train and establish standardized forms, guidelines and tools, particularly if the data collected seek to be useful information for decision-making activities and emergency management 3 .