For the analysis, prognosis, and expert assessment of the rock mechanics behavior of cavity systems in mining and the surrounding rock areas, we perform
- underground geotechnical measurements of stress and deformation behavior as well as hydraulic investigations in situ,
- systematically determine mechanical and hydraulic rock properties in the rock mechanics laboratory and
- simulate rock behavior using numerical modelling.
The close interconnection between these three areas of application enables us to gain a realistic understanding of rock behavior and its future development and, based on this, to prepare expert assessments and recommendations. The following aspects are taken into account:
- Static and dynamic stability
- Hydrogeological integrity of saline barriers / long-term safety
- Convergence behavior of underground cavities
- Development of mining-induced surface subsidence and mining damage analysis
- Proof of rock mechanical suitability of technical closure systems (tunnel and shaft closures)
- Proof of rock mechanical suitability of backfill and construction materials
- Landfill / permanent disposal
- Rock mechanical dimensioning of gas and oil storage caverns and their long-term safe storage
