Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies
The BedrettoLab (Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies) is a unique research infrastructure run by ETH Zurich making it possible to take a close look at the Earth’s interior. It is located in the Swiss Alps 1.5 kilometres below the surface and in the middle of a 5.2 kilometres long tunnel connecting the Ticino with the Furka railway tunnel.
Equipped with the latest technology, the BedrettoLab offers ideal conditions to conduct experimental research focusing on the behaviour of the deep underground when accessing and stimulating it. Such an access is required to advance scientific knowledge in various domains including geothermal energy and earthquake physics. It is also of relevance to develop novel techniques and sensors for these purposes.
2024-12-16
Exploring Earthquake Processes Through Models and Experiments
Patrick Bianchi addresses one of the most complex challenges in geophysics: improving our ability of forecasting natural and induced earthquakes. In his doctoral thesis he successfully combined measurements retrieved at the laboratory scale within the Rock Physics and Mechanics Laboratory (RPMLab) (cm-scale) with numerical simulations to investigate the rock behaviour before an earthquake. Therewith, he aimed to improve the understanding of earthquake triggers and, eventually, set the basis for future upscale experiments at the BedrettoLab (100 m-scale).
In a first step, Patrick conducted experiments in the RPMLab, in which rock samples equipped with acoustic sensors and fiber optics where put under high pressure (up to 170 MPa) to produce tiny earthquakes and, ultimately, to fracture the rock. Thanks to the implemented monitoring technologies, he was able to observe premonitory signals (localisation of seismic and aseismic deformation) shortly before the sample failure. With the available data, he validated numerical simulations performed with a physics-based computational tool that allowed to effectively depict the complexity linked to such preparatory processes.
Next, he focused on how different types of cracking affect stress levels, seismic statistics, and energy release in the rock. He found that certain types of cracks consume more energy, which could help explaining why some earthquakes are bigger than others. By performing additional simulations, he proved that small cracks may merge at the final stages of the experiments, creating larger fractures, which, eventually, lead to a macrofractures in the sample and its complete failure.
Finally, he investigated the effects of fault pre-conditioning in a sample of Rotondo granite retrieved from the BedrettoLab. Before the test, the rock sample was drilled, creating tiny boreholes serving as an artificial fault, which was then saturated with water. His tests showed that the injection of water with pre-conditioning caused the fault to reactivate in specific ways, creating a system of channels that allow the fluid to flow. This process can lead to small, local and sometimes silent movements in the rock that could eventually lead to an earthquake.
By combining lab experiments on different rocks and performing numerical simulations, his research helps to better understand how earthquakes nucleate. This knowledge could eventually lead to more accurate earthquake predictions, benefiting both geothermal energy projects and improving society's ability to prepare for earthquakes.
2024-12-02
News & Science Report 2024 now available
Two reports summarizing the scientific activities of our BedrettoLab team from 2023 to 2024 are now available for download. The News Report offers an overview of the various projects, the progress of the new side tunnel construction, and events organized by our team, including students, researchers, technicians, and administrative staff.
The Science Report focuses on the scientific advancements, providing a summary of the posters presented at conferences and meetings during the same period.
Virtual Tour
Click on play and get a deep insight into the BedrettoLab.
Call for Applications: GeoInquire Access at BedrettoLab
The Bedretto Underground Laboratory for Geosciences and Geoenergies (BedrettoLab) is now accepting applications for Transnational Access (3rd Call) under the GeoInquire program.
BedrettoLab offers unique infrastructure for cutting-edge research and technology demonstration in geo-energy and frontier geosciences. With GoeInquire, access to the following testbeds can be facilitated:
- Geothermal Testbed: For developing and testing geothermal energy technologies.
- Earthquake Physics Testbed: For studying seismogenic faults and earthquake mechanics.
- Deep Life Observatory (DELOS): For exploring life in deep subsurface environments.
Researchers can access state-of-the-art sensor networks, data archives, and modeling tools. Remote access options, including real-time data streaming, are also available.
Applications are open for one-week access grants, with technical and logistical support provided.
For details and application guidelines, visit the following link: https://www.geo-inquire.eu/transnational-access-offer/ta3-82-1