Monte Carlo simulations of a stability monitoring system based on tracking cosmic rays

This paper describes the results of preliminary Monte Carlo simulations to investigate feasibility, performances and limitations of an original application of cosmic ray tracking to monitor static stability of civil structures, in particular historical buildings, where conservation constraints are severe and the time evolution of eventual deformation phenomena may be of the order of months or years. The simulated system consists of three or more particle detectors vertically aligned and linked together with the considered building. When a cosmic ray crosses all the measuring detectors, its track can be reconstructed and the reciprocal position of detectors can be determined. Continuous measurements allow to ascertain possible variations in detector positions related to deformations of the studied building.