Rock mechanics and seismology

The Konrad site is located in a tectonically undisturbed zone in Germany. The last relevant tectonic movements in the vicinity of the site took place about five million years ago.

Destructive earthquakes in the vicinity of the Konrad site. Circles spaced at intervals of 50 km

Konrad is safe – the stability of the Konrad mine in its current and future state is no question. Numerous measurements and observations as to the rock mechanics of the mine confirm that no above-ground damages due to depression have occurred so far. Mining experiences on the mining of cavities show that the future holds no grounds for concern.

After disposal: No underground cavities

Rock-mechanical model calculations and mining experiences show that the stability of the underground installations and of the shafts is not at risk after the Konrad repository has been established. The emplacement areas of the repository will be backfilled after the operational phase. In the process of decommissioning, the shafts will be sealed, as well. Vibrations due to collapses may not occur as there will be no more open cavities in the post-closure phase.

Earthquake-proof zone

A risk to the Konrad site due to the effects of stronger subsidence earthquakes (non-tectonic quakes) at other mining sites can be ruled out because of the great distance. No damaging earthquake has been detected within a radius of 100 kilometres in the past 1,200 years. All events having occurred at a distance of up to 200 kilometres to Konrad have been considered in the determination of the risk for an earthquake.