Rock mass modelling

Mountain modeling involves the application of numerical methods for the scientific analysis and prediction of the mechanical, hydraulic, and thermal behavior (THM) of a geological body in response to mining activities.

This process involves a wide range of investigations and rock mechanics predictions, including:

• Assessment of system stability in both static and dynamic terms,
• Verification and assessment of the hydraulic barrier integrity or
• Calculating the spread of fluids within damaged barrier areas based on the analysis of potential spread trajectories or using the pressure-driven percolation method.
• Safe dimensioning of underground cavities and load-bearing elements,
• Prediction of the convergence behavior of subsurface cavities,
• Analysis and prognosis of long-term safety and subsidence development,
• Investigations into the effectiveness of backfill,
• Long-term rock mechanical proof of function of tunnel and shaft closures,
• Investigation into the effectiveness of reinforcement elements such as rock bolts,
• Calculations for the dimensioning and rock-mechanically safe operation of storage caverns.

The IfG uses various program systems to investigate complex continuum and discontinuum mechanical problems using both plane, rotationally symmetric, and spatial models. High-performance multi-core processors of the latest generation are available for this purpose. In combination with CAD-based meshers and modern, higher-order material models, it is now possible to create realistic models that represent specific problems and calculate reliable predictions of future developments (including THM-coupled).