Development and use of semi-empirical spectral ground motion models for GPP-induced micro-earthquakes in Southern Germany

• DOI: 10.1007/s10518-024-01951-8
• Publication Date: 2024-07-30T18:22:43Z
• Authors: Francesca Taddei; Sabrina Keil; Ali Khansefid; Aditi Kumawat; Felix Schneider; Johachim Wassermann; Gerhard Müller
• Keywords: Ground truth

Abstract This study provides a comprehensive exploration of ground motions associated with micro-earthquakes induced by geothermal power plants (GPP) in Southern Germany and proposes corresponding motion prediction equations (GMPE). Initiating statistical analysis recorded seismic data from the GPP Insheim, is extended to greater Munich area. For latter, scarce are merged physics-based simulation data. The Poing, Unterhaching simulated compared existing GMPEs for GPP-induced events, highlighting need new region-specific equations. proposed expressed terms peak quantities, spectral accelerations velocities, separating horizontal vertical direction. regression curves exhibit good alignment both data, within an acceptable range. Notably, results reveal higher quantities at shorter periods ( $$&lt;0.1$$ <mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML"> <mml:mrow> <mml:mo>&lt;</mml:mo> <mml:mn>0.1</mml:mn> </mml:mrow> </mml:math> s), underscoring importance this characteristic assessment. article shows exemplary application low-rise residential building, located hypocentral distance 3 km. While building meets serviceability standards $$M_W$$ <mml:msub> <mml:mi>M</mml:mi> <mml:mi>W</mml:mi> </mml:msub> up 2.5, verification fails $$M_W=3$$ <mml:mo>=</mml:mo> <mml:mn>3</mml:mn> , emphasizing robust risk These findings contribute understanding offering practical implications verifications aiding informed decision-making energy projects. Graphical abstract