Geophysical Characterization of Karstified Zones During Tunnel Construction: A Case Study From The Semmering Base Tunnel

A geophysical survey successfully identified a karstified zone during the construction of the 27.3 km long Semmering Base Railway Tunnel (Austria), mitigating risks and reducing the need for exploratory drillings. The study employed gravimetric and seismic methods to investigate potential cavities in a geologically complex area with carbonates, anhydrite, and mica schist. Innovative processing techniques enabled precise interpretation of subsurface features, which were later confirmed by targeted drilling. This approach demonstrates the effectiveness of geophysical methods in optimizing tunnel construction while addressing logistical challenges.

Kusnirak, D., Holzer, R., Behm, M., Záhorec, P., Hohenbühel, J., & Radinger, A. (2022). Geophysical Characterization of Karstified Zones During Tunnel Construction: A Case Study From The Semmering Base Tunnel. NSG2022 28th European Meeting of Environmental and Engineering Geophysics, 1–5. https://doi.org/10.3997/2214-4609.202220160