3D Geological Model for Germany and Adjacent Areas

Abstract. 3D geological models are an essential source of information for research as well as for the safe and efficient use of the underground. They provide not only a visualization of the subsurface structures, but also serve as geometry input for geophysical and numerical models, e.g., gravimetric, mechanical or thermal models. The set-up of a geological model for a numerical simulation is often a time-consuming task. During the last two decades several 3D geological models have been created for specific regions in Germany. However, up to now only one attempt has been made to combine several of them to a Germany-wide model. We present a new Germany-wide 3D geological model combining information of 27 individual models. The model has a resolution of 1x1 km² and is vertically and horizontally subdivided into 146 units. Where possible, the model has been extended to neighbouring states, e.g., Netherlands, Belgium, France, Switzerland or Austria. In order to combine all models with their different sizes, resolutions and stratigraphic subdivisions, a point-set approach was chosen which has a number of advantages with regard to the flexibility and usability. To demonstrate the usability, the set-up of a FE model is shown as a possible application.