Laboratory experiments have shown that strain levels as low as one microstrain in competent rock samples produce detectable acoustic emissions (AE) in the frequency range from 100 to 300 kHz. Naturally occurring strain and strain rates have similar levels to those at which laboratory AE was detected. In the buildup of a strain field over the “preparation zone” of an impending earthquake, strain in collapsing pores, grain boundary slippage, and other microscopic ruptures may cause high frequency AE. However, this AE due to tectonic strain must be distinguished from AE from other sources such as air pressure changes, thermal expansion/contraction, earth tides, and cultural activities. Sufficient AE at very low strain levels, and detectable above noise backgrounds, might provide a useful precursor to earthquakes.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.