Rockfall Analysis from UAV-Based Photogrammetry and 3D Models of a Cliff Area

Rockfall Analysis from UAV-Based Photogrammetry and 3D Models of a Cliff Area

2024, 8, 31 | Daniele Cirillo, Michelangelo Zappa, Anna Chiara Tangari, Francesco Brozzetti and Fabio Ietto
This research employs drone-based high-resolution photogrammetry to assess the geomechanical properties and rockfall potential of several rock scarps within a 50-ha area in Calabria, Italy. Traditional methods for evaluating geomechanical parameters on rock scarps are time-consuming and hazardous, whereas drone photogrammetry offers a safer and more efficient approach. The study area is characterized by vertical rock scarps exposed to sea wave energy and complex geological formations. Advanced geospatial software was used to process drone imagery, generating accurate orthophotos and digital elevation models. These models provide insights into topography, geological structures, and potential failure mechanisms. Over 8.9 × 10^7 facets representing discontinuity planes were identified, with direct toppling being the most common rockfall type, followed by planar sliding and flexural toppling. Three different fracturation grades were identified based on the number of planar facets. The research contributes to the development of fast, practical, low-cost, and non-invasive techniques for geomechanical assessment on vertical rock scarps, demonstrating the effectiveness of drone-based photogrammetry in rapidly collecting comprehensive geomechanical data. The study area's geological context, including its tectonic framework and rock units, is also described, highlighting the importance of understanding the geomechanical conditions for managing natural hazards.This research employs drone-based high-resolution photogrammetry to assess the geomechanical properties and rockfall potential of several rock scarps within a 50-ha area in Calabria, Italy. Traditional methods for evaluating geomechanical parameters on rock scarps are time-consuming and hazardous, whereas drone photogrammetry offers a safer and more efficient approach. The study area is characterized by vertical rock scarps exposed to sea wave energy and complex geological formations. Advanced geospatial software was used to process drone imagery, generating accurate orthophotos and digital elevation models. These models provide insights into topography, geological structures, and potential failure mechanisms. Over 8.9 × 10^7 facets representing discontinuity planes were identified, with direct toppling being the most common rockfall type, followed by planar sliding and flexural toppling. Three different fracturation grades were identified based on the number of planar facets. The research contributes to the development of fast, practical, low-cost, and non-invasive techniques for geomechanical assessment on vertical rock scarps, demonstrating the effectiveness of drone-based photogrammetry in rapidly collecting comprehensive geomechanical data. The study area's geological context, including its tectonic framework and rock units, is also described, highlighting the importance of understanding the geomechanical conditions for managing natural hazards.
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