Structural geology
Mapping and characterisation of seismogenic fault systems along the Apennine chain
Italian Fund for Science 2025
Project
A scientific initiative for seismic risk assessment and reduction across Italy.
Overview
About the project
DEFENS is funded by the Italian Fund for Science of the Ministry of University and Research with approximately €1.35 million. The project develops dynamic, multi-cycle numerical models that integrate geological, palaeoseismological, geochemical and geophysical data to simulate the propagation of coseismic ruptures and the transfer of interseismic stress along the Apennine chain.
The analyses focus on twelve study areas representing the main seismogenic fault systems of the Apennines. By integrating field data, laboratory analyses and advanced numerical modelling, the team identifies zones where future earthquakes might nucleate.
The ultimate goal is to contribute concretely to reducing seismic risk in Italy, through the proactive engagement of citizens and competent institutions in risk management and communication.
How we work
Methodologies
A multidisciplinary approach integrating geology, palaeoseismology, geochemistry and remote sensing
Palaeoseismology
Reconstruction of seismic history through palaeoseismological trenches and coring
Geochemistry
Rare earth element analysis for understanding seismic cycles and tectonic processes
Drones
Remote analysis with high-resolution topographic surveys and LiDAR
Numerical modelling
Dynamic and multi-cycle simulation of coseismic rupture propagation
Public engagement
Community involvement, scientific outreach and seismic risk communication
Roadmap
Project Timeline
Progress phases from data collection to dissemination of results
Q1–Q2
Launch & data collection
First geological survey campaign across the twelve study areas and baseline data acquisition.
Q3–Q4
Palaeoseismological analyses
Trenching and coring on the main seismogenic fault systems of the Apennines.
Q1–Q2
Data integration
Merging geological, geochemical and geophysical datasets into a unified numerical model.
Q3–Q4
First dataset release
Publication of interim dataset on open-access repository and presentation at national and international conferences.
Q1–Q2
Multi-cycle modelling
Development of dynamic models for simulating the propagation of coseismic ruptures.
Q3–Q4
Validation & peer review
Submission of ISI journal articles, workshop with stakeholders, civil protection and citizens.
Q1–Q2
Final synthesis
Final report, complete dataset and international dissemination conference.
Outcomes
Impact & Expected Results
Scientific, environmental and technological contributions at project completion
Academic
Advanced numerical models for coseismic rupture simulation, publications in international indexed journals and a citable open-access dataset.
Technological
Advanced tools for seismic risk assessment aimed at institutions, and production of free Web Apps and Mobile Apps available to the public to improve awareness of territorial seismic vulnerability.