Active structures and thermal state of the Piton de la Fournaise summit revealed by combined UAV magnetic and thermal infrared measurements

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Lydie Gailler
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8132-2428
Philippe Labazuy
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4518-3328
Edouard Régis
Aline Peltier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0005-301X
Valérie Ferrazzini
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7908-1429

Abstract

In this study, we demonstrate the strong potential of combining Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based thermal infrared (IR) and magnetic measurements to image the thermal state of volcanic edifices, as well as the distribution of active volcano-tectonic features at depth. Since magnetization is strongly dependent on temperature and alteration, thermally active structures are also associated with a decrease in magnetization. Based on the analysis of recent combined magnetic and infrared acquisitions, we focus on the recent evolution of the summit activity at Piton de la Fournaise. The comparison clearly highlights zones of major thermal activity, alteration and high permeability, and potentially areas of low mechanical resistance. Those observations provide information on preferential pathways for future activity, and also provide constraints on fluid transfer, diffusion, and cooling processes occurring within the volcano subsurface. Through reiterations, such combined UAV measurements are therefore particularly relevant in monitoring volcanic hazards before, during and after eruptions.

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How to Cite
Gailler, L., Labazuy, P., Régis, E., Peltier, A. and Ferrazzini, V. (2022) “Active structures and thermal state of the Piton de la Fournaise summit revealed by combined UAV magnetic and thermal infrared measurements”, Volcanica, 5(1), pp. 61–74. doi: 10.30909/vol.05.01.6174.
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Dates
Received 2021-08-03
Accepted 2021-12-06
Published 2022-02-04
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