Natural processes and system evolution during mine closure: numerical simulation and visualization

We have developed a numerical tool which is particularly suitable for the simulation of water and gas flow, mechanical and chemical phenomena as well as processes related to the transport of contaminants and radionuclides in underground structures over long periods of time. KAFKA was applied for investigations concerning the flooding and closure of the Asse research mine, a former salt mine. Given the complexity of the mine structure and the multitude of interconnected processes considered, the specifically designed visualization tool Assemblage is indispensable for the interpretation of intermittent and final simulation results. (authors)