Geohazards
Geohazards comprise all kinds of natural disasters that can affect the human sphere of influence. Known large events are volcanism, earthquakes, storms and floods. But there are also less extreme events that can also make us vulnerable to e.g. mass dislocations (land slides), surface collapse or uplift (sink holes, mining, salt tectonics), as well as naturally or artificially caused or enhanced contamination.
In addition to basic research, new measuring techniques, simulations and monitoring strategies are necessary, which encompass a variety of disciplines from geo to engineering, up to social and economical sciences. Here, we contribute with geophysical and especially seismic measurements in the field or on sealed surfaces, together with simulation.
Together with partners from research and industry we have written a white paper on 'Characterisation and monitoring of salt-related sinkholes in urban areas' which guides research in the medium term.

Ground subsidence which occurred in night from 17 to 18.03.07 in Rathmannsdorf, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. Diameter ca. 5m, depth ca. 1 m.
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Staff
Projects
Integrated geophysical methods applied to sinkhole problems in North Germany
Dynamics of flooded salt mines and their overburden




