Groundwater dynamics of flooded salt mines (Stassfurt)

Isotope hydrology 

Within the framework of the investigation of flooded former potash and rock salt mines of Stassfurt, Germany, the stability of the salt body and the overlying rock formations is investigated. Existing cavities or opening created by the dissolution of salt induce subsidence of the ground, which poses a serious challenge to planning land-use. The causes and risks of these subsidence processes are investigated in the framework of a multilateral BMBF-project. The aim of the sub-project isotope hydrology is the characterization of groundwater movement using environmental isotopes to deliniate hydraulic connections, and in- and outflow of water from the former mine, and to determine groundwater residence times.