For the analysis, prognosis, and expert assessment of the rock mechanics behavior of cavity systems in mining and the surrounding rock mass, we perform
- underground geotechnical measurements in situ to evaluate stress and deformation behavior as well as hydraulic investigations,
- determine mechanical and hydraulic rock properties through systematic laboratory testing and
- simulate rock mass behavior using advanced numerical models.
The close interconnection between these three fields of work 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 analysis of mining-related damage
- Rock mechanics verification of engineered sealing systems (tunnel and shaft sealings)
- Proof of rock mechanical suitability of backfill and construction materials
- Landfill / final disposal
- Rock mechanical dimensioning of gas and oil caverns and their long-term safe abandonment
