Strainmeters and tiltmeters in geophysics

Abstract

Several types of sensitive strainmeters and tiltmeters have been developed, and it is now becoming clear which geophysical applications are most suitable for these instruments. In general, strainmeters and tiltmeters are used for observing ground deformation at periods of minutes to days. Small-scale lateral inhomogeneities at the instrument sites distort signals by a few percent, although the effects of large structures can be calculated. In earth tide work these lateral inhomogeneities and unknown ocean loading signals prevent accurate values of the regional tide from being obtained. This limits tidal investigations to looking for temporal variations, possibly associated with pre-earthquake dilatancy, and spatial variations caused by gross elasticity contrasts in the local geological structure. Strainmeters and tiltmeters are well suited for observing long-period seismic waves, seismic slip events on faults and volcano tumescence, where small site-induced distortions in the measured signals are seldom important. Geodetic techniques are superior for monitoring slow tectonic deformation over large areas, but strainmeters and tiltmeters may be used to complement geodetic networks by providing continuous records. The recording instruments would show whether deformation proceeded episodically, but could not be relied upon to give accurate values for secular strain and tilt rates because of instrumental drift.