3D subsoil reconstruction of a mud volcano in central Sicily by means of geophysical surveys

Abstract The upwelling of fluids, subject to overpressure, along with discontinuities in the subsoil, causes formation geological structures known as mud volcanoes. These structures, very widespread world and some cases located near inhabited centers, can represent a considerable risk factor for population, they give rise paroxysmal eruptions, even violent. assessment characteristics structure subsoil areas affected by this phenomenon prove be useful tool mitigation. Non-invasive geophysical surveys were carried out area active cone Santa Barbara volcano order obtain 3D characterization subsoil. Through processing integration data derived from passive seismic was obtained, model showing seismostratigraphic structure. electrical resistivity tomography provided results comparable those obtained supplied information on perimetral volcano. is study boundary conditions that influence short-scale activity. Furthermore, seeks evaluate possibility using proposed methodological approach monitoring variations occur over time volcanoes phenomenon.