White Island volcanic signatures from lab to field

Fluid generated hydrid event in a fractured volcanic rock

 

Volcanoes have magmatic and hydrothermal systems with variable fluid pressures, temperatures and rock alteration, influencing volcano hazards. Physical changes inside the volcano can be monitored with seismic methods, but how seismic waves are affected by individual physical parameters and their correlation is not well understood. We are performing a comprehensive analysis of unique laboratory experiments on acoustic emissions and coda waves to calibrate seismic event observations recorded at field stations. In particular we focus our research to White Island (Whakaari) because it is one of the most active volcanoes in New Zealand.