Geröllschüttung

Geröllschüttung, also known as rockfall, is a geological hazard that occurs when a mass of rock, loose rock, or soil suddenly breaks free from a slope and accelerates under the force of gravity. This phenomenon can be triggered by various factors such as earthquakes, heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or human activities like blasting or excavation.

Rockfalls can range in size from small boulders to large masses of rock that can weigh several tons. They can occur on slopes of any material, including bedrock, soil, and glacial deposits. The movement of the rock mass can be rapid, sometimes reaching speeds of over 100 kilometers per hour, and can travel distances of hundreds of meters.

The impact of a rockfall can cause significant damage to infrastructure, such as roads, buildings, and power lines. It can also pose a risk to human life, especially in areas where rockfalls are frequent. To mitigate these risks, various engineering techniques are employed, such as the installation of rockfall nets, the reinforcement of slopes with mesh or geotextiles, and the creation of buffer zones.

Rockfalls are a natural process that contributes to the formation of landscapes and the deposition of sediment. However, they can also have negative impacts on human activities and the environment. Therefore, it is important to study and understand rockfalls to develop effective management strategies.