Not just the Internet: with foresight, fiber optics detect structural damage after earthquakes
A new methodology based on optical interferometry to monitor, in real time, the structural damage to buildings hit by earthquakes.
This is the point of arrival of the Foresight research project led by the Politecnico di Milano, and created in collaboration with INRiM - National Institute of Metrological Research and INGV - National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology.
The researchers intend use fiber optic networks already existing in homes for Internet connection, as tools to check the condition of buildings after an earthquake, especially in the phase immediately following the first tremors.
Using interferometry techniques, the multidisciplinary team uses signals transmitted via optical fiber to extract information in a timely manner and on a large scale. By converting fiber optic signals into predictive structural data, researchers are able to predict the extent of potential damage even before visible signs appear., providing vital guidance for emergency response teams.
The study's simulations show that the method has the potential to detect damage in the early, most critical phase, after which it is necessary to quickly assess the condition of homes, because people displaced by tremors need a safe place to seek refuge.
The innovative system Foresight It is proposed as an economically advantageous and efficient solution, activating a framework for rapid post-earthquake risk assessment, 90% faster than current methods, low cost because up to 50% cheaper, scalable and more reliable of traditional visual assessment methods.
"We aim to create a system that can assess structural integrity, without requiring additional infrastructure in the affected areas. Our ultimate goal is to provide communities with the tools they need to respond more quickly and safely to seismic events.", he claims Alper Kanyilmaz, supervisor of the Foresight project and professor at the Department of Architecture, Construction Engineering and Built Environment of the Polytechnic University of Milan.
"Within Foresight I use advanced techniques, including mathematical models and data analysis, to assess the stability and safety of buildings, integrating them with optical interferometry and ensuring practical application for resilience in the event of real earthquakes in our cities.", he claims Hassan Ceylan, researcher at the Polytechnic University of Milan thanks to a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions grant, a prestigious European research funding program.
The measurement of signals inside cables plays a very important role. "Optical interferometry, derived from the advanced measurement techniques developed at INRiM, allows us to exploit existing optical fibers as extremely sensitive sensors. This approach allows us to detect minimal structural variations, translating them into quantitative and reliable information.", he claims Simone Donadello, researcher at INRiM and member of the Foresight team.
Andre Herrero, researcher at INGV adds: "Today, current fiber sensing techniques open new horizons for monitoring natural events and their impact on our urban fabric. This additional piece focuses on direct and continuous monitoring of structures, which is an important information and security tool for society.".
The joint research team of Politecnico di Milano and INRiM, together with INGV and Open Fiber, has filed a patent application related to the Foresight method. The next phase of research will focus on real-world applications and testing in urban areas, to make this technology a key part of earthquake preparedness and disaster response strategies. Further developments could see fibre optic networks integrated into a broader structural health monitoring strategy, in the event of an earthquake.