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Risk reduction by mitigation structures – change of the paradigm in risk assessment of volcanic Lahar flows of the Cotopaxi volcano in Ecuador

Abstract:

With an analysis of the main hydraulic structures existing in the world for the control and mitigation of lahars flows, we established that mixed dams, composed of loose materials and concrete cells, are the most suitable for mitigate the impact of the lahars in the case of an eruption of Cotopaxi, an Ecuadorian volcano located in the center of the country. At least six structures for the retention of sludge have been designed within the probable volumes that could be presented. These structures are of a very low cost in comparison with the possible damages that would occur in the case that these works are not built, without considering the possible human losses.