Study on the use of low-cost low-power microwave technologies for the real-time detection of gravity-driven natural hazards.

Accurate monitoring and characterization of water dynamics are critical for applications in coastal safety, renewable energy, and environmental management. This thesis explores the potential of Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave radar technology for non-contact monitoring and analysis of sea waves and river flows. By leveraging advanced signal processing techniques, including two-dimensional Fast Fourier Transform (2D-FFT) and Constant False Alarm Rate filtering, this study aims to enhance the precision of wave parameter measurements such as range, velocity, and energy distribution. Experimental assessments were conducted in real-world coastal and river environments, validating the radar system's effectiveness in providing reliable and detailed water dynamics data. Key contributions include the development of methodologies for resolving range-velocity ambiguities, analyzing wave energy patterns, and optimizing radar performance for real-time applications. The findings demonstrate that low-cost FMCW radar systems can serve as practical tools for water state monitoring, with potential applications in disaster mitigation, renewable energy resource assessment. This work contributes to the advancement of radar-based hydrological sensing technologies, highlighting their importance in modern environmental studies, particularly for monitoring debris flow and its impacts.