Routine monitoring of hydraulic infrastructures using the European Ground Motion Service and other satellite radar sensors

Abstract

Ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of hydraulic infrastructures is paramount, considering the widespread consequences that damages can inflict on people, communities, and the environment. To mitigate risks and prevent significant losses, continuous surveillance is vital. While some damages might appear minor, they can jeopardize the complete operational reliability of dams, leading to substantial economic losses, especially in energy production and related activities. The rapid growth in 20th-century infrastructure development globally has made security monitoring a necessity for numerous civil structures. Rigorous inspection programs, particularly for reservoir dams, are essential for safeguarding citizens and their properties. However, individually monitoring each dam is often impractical due to the associated costs and time constraints, potentially posing safety risks. Fortunately, satellite-based differential radar interferometry (DInSAR) offers an effective and cost-efficient remote sensing solution. Multi-temporal Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (MT-InSAR) techniques, particularly utilizing Persistent Scatterers, have proven successful in monitoring various infrastructures, natural phenomena, and geological activities. MT-InSAR provides precise measurements without the need for fieldwork, utilizing historical SAR image archives dating back to the 1990s. Technological advancements, such as the Sentinel-1 C-band with a six-day revisit time until the end of 2021, have enhanced monitoring capabilities. Additionally, commercial radar images in the X-band and the development of multi-interferometric InSAR techniques have opened new avenues for monitoring. This study showcases the adaptation and application of MT-InSAR for monitoring dams and large ponds constructed with loose materials. By assessing vertical displacements and consolidation rates, the technique identifies potential issues, aiding in further field investigations. Case studies involving dams and large reservoirs in Andalusia illustrate the effectiveness of satellite radar interferometry in monitoring their structural stability from space as a routine practice.