Ohrid Lake 3D Strong Motion Array

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Challenge
The main challenge was to develop a comprehensive research installation that could provide high-resolution, three-dimensional data on seismic wave propagation, including both natural earthquakes and artificially generated shaking events. The aim was to improve understanding of soil–structure interaction, validate seismic design methodologies, and build scientific knowledge that could directly support earthquake safety in urban environments.
Solution
The system consists of:
- 57 seismic channels distributed across four monitoring sites in Ohrid.
- Sensors installed at different depths (up to 100 meters underground), in open field conditions, and at building locations.
- A 40-meter-deep experimental shaft constructed specifically to host mechanical shakers, allowing researchers to generate controlled artificial earthquakes.
- Real-time data acquisition and long-term storage for continuous monitoring.
This unique setup allows both the observation of natural seismicity and carefully controlled scientific experiments, making it possible to isolate and analyze specific soil–structure interaction effects.
Outcomes
The Ohrid Lake 3D Real-Time Array has been extensively used for academic and applied research in earthquake engineering. Over the decades, it has:
- Supported soil–structure interaction studies crucial for the seismic design of buildings and infrastructure.
- Enabled the calibration and validation of seismic models under both natural and artificial excitation.
- Served as a scientific training hub, attracting researchers and students from across Europe and beyond.
- Continued to deliver unique insights into seismic wave propagation in complex soil environments, reinforcing its role as one of the few globally recognized experimental seismic arrays.
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