Characterisation of a landslide by its fracture system using Electric Resistivity Tomography and Pressure Probe methods

Abstract

We have studied a slowly moving loess landslide along the River Danube in South Hungary. In contrast with other efforts, we aimed to determine its fracture system. Due to the homogeneous composition of the loess, it seems to be the only possibility to get information about the landslide and its further evolution. Beside of the well-known Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) the so-called Pressure Probe (PreP) method was applied to characterise the supposedly dense fracture system. This method was developed to detect and characterise mechanically weak zones, which may not visible from the surface, and may occur e.g. due to landslides. Fracture zones had been especially well localised by the ERT, enabling the prediction of the positions of future rupture surfaces and thus also the delineation of the endangered zones. PreP was able to give a very detailed image about the surface projection of the fractures. Both methods proved to be good to characterise the fracture system of such a landslide area. Geophysical predictions have been verified also in reality: the mass movements occurred about 1½ years after the measurements. Therefore, to provide early risk warnings and to avoid damage to constructions or endangering human life, the application of the ERT and PreP methods is highly recommended.