Laboratory seismology plays a key role in experimental seismology by enabling precise observation of geological and physical processes under controlled, reproducible conditions.
Underground rock laboratories, located hundreds of metres below the Earth's surface, serve as vital research sites for geoscientists worldwide. These large-scale experiments are complemented by smaller, controlled experiments on rock samples, where researchers can manipulate environmental conditions more precisely than in situ. Such facilities are crucial for advancing our understanding of the complex processes occurring deep within the Earth's crust.
Studying earthquake mechanics in the lab
Lab-based research is closely tied to earthquake mechanics, with applications in fields like:
- Geothermal energy
- Carbon sequestration
Studying earthquake mechanics in the lab involves:
- Close observation of rock fracture and failure processes
- Understanding earthquake initiation and propagation
This knowledge contributes to physics-based models that enhance forecasting and reduce seismic hazard and risks.
Laboratory seismology in Switzerland
The SED use a variety of laboratories, from small-scale to large underground rock laboratories:
Mont Terri rock laboratory (Canton of Jura): research initially focused on radioactive waste storage, now also researching underground storage of CO2, both of which have the potential to induce seismicity.
BedrettoLab (Canton of Ticino): A deep underground rock laboratory operated by ETH Zurich, which focuses on developing new methods to create an efficient heat exchanger deep underground without triggering major perceptible or damaging earthquakes.
Grimsel Test Site (Canton of Bern): The SED gathered initial data on the connection between geothermal energy and induced seismicity, before the BedrettoLab was fully operational.
Advanced tools for understanding earthquake processes
As a partner of the Rock Physics and Mechanics Laboratory at ETH Zurich, the SED develops advanced tools to:
- Observe and visualise fracture processes
- Study the initiation, propagation, and arrest of earthquakes.
- Systematically test and isolate key features of the failure process
One of the most advanced tools is LabQuake, an 11-ton, 2.4 x 2.5 x 1 metres machine capable of inducing small earthquakes in palm-sized rock samples. It replicates conditions similar to 4-8 km depth in the Earth's crust, pushing the boundaries of laboratory seismology.
The laboratory seismology group develops advanced tools to observe and understand physical processes that control the initiation, propagation, and arrest of earthquakes. These tools help us to clarify patterns, enabling systematic testing to isolate key features of the failure process that are most crucial and need to be considered. Understanding the fundamental processes that affect rock deformation is essential to produce more accurate physics-based models, which can improve forecasting and minimize hazard and risk. The group’s work is closely linked to geophysical research that enables application such as geothermal energy and carbon sequestration while contributing to the broader understanding of earthquakes and faulting.
The laboratory seismology group is led by Dr. Paul Selvadurai (pictured on the right).