Detection of volcanic ash

The LPM was successfully used to measure volcanic ash (tephra) at the active Sakurajima volcano in Japan—and is now also planned for use in a measurement network on Mount Etna.

The field study (University of Geneva, March 2022, Scientific Reports) highlights the following points:
• Precision down to the last detail: Detects particles as small as 0.15 mm – ideal for fine volcanic ash.
• Real-time individual detection: Measures the fall velocity of each particle and distinguishes individual grains from aggregates.
• Robust & cost-efficient: Developed for field use, more cost-effective than comparable systems.
• Complete grain size distribution (TGSD): Relevant data for ash dispersion models and aviation safety.

The study proves that the LPM (LNM) not only detects hydrometeorological precipitation, but also non-hydrometeorological particles such as volcanic ash – even under abrasive and optically difficult conditions.

This confirms the wide range of applications for the LPM: volcanic monitoring, aviation meteorology, and geoscientific research.

Source: Freret-Lorgeril et al. (2022): New insights into real-time detection of tephra grainsize, settling velocity and sedimentation rate. Scientific Reports (Nature, 2022, 12, 4650).

More information Laser Precipitation Monitor:
General product infromation, LPM
Technical Details LPM