Advanced geophysical data analysis and 3D surveys for the detection and characterization of volcanic and karstic caves

The study of caves accessible from the surface can be straightforwardly conducted using traditional geodetic and geological methods. However, many undiscovered subterranean spaces lacking direct access necessitate an indirect approach to study. Geophysical techniques represent an excellent tool for identifying unknown cavities. Two caves in different geological settings were analyzed: the “Micio Conti” lava tube and the karstic “Chiusazza” cave. High-resolution digital twins were created using UAV photogrammetry and Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), georeferenced with GNSS receivers. Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) surveys provided 3D resistivity models, and a cluster analysis of resistivity data identified anomalies associated with underground voids. The integration of 3D surveys and geophysical data enabled a detailed assessment of cavity dimensions and features. Additionally, resistivity anomalies revealed inaccessible cavity sectors, demonstrating the effectiveness of this multi-method approach for detecting and mapping subsurface cavities in varied geological contexts