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Vertically Distributed Sensing of Deformation Using Fiber Optic Sensing
Author(s) -
Zhang ChengCheng,
Shi Bin,
Gu Kai,
Liu SuPing,
Wu JingHong,
Zhang Song,
Zhang Lei,
Jiang HongTao,
Wei GuangQing
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2018gl080428
Subject(s) - extensometer , deformation (meteorology) , distributed acoustic sensing , geology , optical fiber , borehole , fiber optic sensor , remote sensing , deformation monitoring , seismology , geotechnical engineering , computer science , telecommunications , structural engineering , engineering , oceanography
Abstract Vertical deformation can be revealed by various techniques such as precise leveling, satellite imagery, and extensometry. Despite considerable effort, recording detailed subsurface deformation using traditional extensometers remains challenging when attempting to detect localized deformation. Here we introduce distributed fiber optic sensing based on Brillouin scattering as a geophysical exploration method for imaging distributed profiles of vertical deformation. By examining fiber optic cable‐soil interaction we found a threshold in confining pressure to achieve a strong cable‐soil coupling, thus validating data collected from a borehole‐embedded fiber optic cable deployed in Shengze, southern Yangtze Delta, China. Clear‐cut strain profiles acquired from November 2014 to December 2016 allowed us to pinpoint where compaction or rebound was actively occurring and examine strain responses at various locations along the entire cable length. We suggest that distributed fiber optic sensing can complement with extensometry and remote sensing techniques for improved monitoring of vertical deformation.