Detecting the Unseen: Understanding the Mechanisms and Working Principles of Earthquake Sensors

Abstract

The application of movement-detection sensors is crucial for understanding surface movement and tectonic activities. The development of modern sensors has been instrumental in earthquake monitoring, prediction, early warning, emergency commanding and communication, search and rescue, and life detection. There are numerous sensors currently being utilized in earthquake engineering and science. It is essential to review their mechanisms and working principles thoroughly. Hence, we have attempted to review the development and application of these sensors by classifying them based on the timeline of earthquakes, the physical or chemical mechanisms of sensors, and the location of sensor platforms. In this study, we analyzed available sensor platforms that have been widely used in recent years, with satellites and UAVs being among the most used. The findings of our study will be useful for future earthquake response and relief efforts, as well as research aimed at reducing earthquake disaster risks.

Eyes in the Sky: Drones Applications in the Built Environment under Climate Change Challenges

“…For climate change research, UAV methane mapping can improve our understanding of gas emission sources, such as permafrost thaw, and quantify carbon cycle feedbacks [102]. Equipping UAVs with radon sensors can also improve earthquake predictions by tracking underground gas seepages [103,104]. As sensors become miniaturized, UAVs will likely grow into a standard airborne platform for environmental chemical sensing across scales from localized events to global processes.…”