Application of passive and active seismic methods to subsurface investigation of Just-Tegoborze landslide (Outer Carpathians, Poland)

The study presents the results of seismic measurements on the Just-Tegoborze landslide located in Outer Carpathians in the southern region of Poland. The aim of the study was to investigate the landslide geological subsurface and define S-wave velocity changes within geological medium using passive seismic interferometry (SI) and active multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW). Additionally, seismic refraction and numerical slip surface calculations were carried out in order to combine the results.

Measurements of SI were conducted based on local high-frequency seismic noise generated by heavy vehicles passing state road which intersects Just-Tegoborze landslide. Seismic noise registration was made using three-component broadband seismometers installed along a seismic profile. Measurements were repeated in a few series in different season and hydration conditions.

Seismic sections show different velocity layers within the landslide medium. Comparing them with geological cross-section of the studied area, we can distinguish the main lithological boundaries. First near-surface seismic layers may correspond to clayey colluvium and clayey-rock colluvium. The deepest seismic layer probably correlates to less weathered flysch bedrock made of shales and sandstones. It can be identified as the main slip surface of the studied landslide.

S-wave velocities within seismic profiles significantly varies between each measurement series of SI. It can be observed a decrease of S-wave velocity in March and July which is connected to seasonal weather and hydration conditions. Strong increase of hydration during melting snow cover in March and after heavy rainfalls in July resulted in loss of rigidity what presumably led to drop of S-wave velocity. Changes in hydration could also cause the variation of the course of the less weathered flysch bedrock boundary.

Presented results of passive seismic interferometry measurements show that study of seismic noise can be applicable to subsurface identification of an active landslide. The example of Just-Tegoborze site indicates that based on seismic interferometry it is possible to observe changes in elastic properties of geological medium. It is worth to underline that SI and MASW complement each other in retrieving the information of Rayleigh surface wave. Combining the results with seismic refraction and numerical calculations allows to better image the landslide geological subsurface. Such observations may be helpful in assessing landslide threat.