Department of Engineering Geology
Institute of Rock Structure and Mechanics of the CAS

1. Landslides
In the landslide research, the team concentrates on multidisciplinary studies of various types of slope processes, ranging from deep-seated landslides through debris flows to rockfalls, with our study sites spread both in the Czech Republic and worldwide (Peru, Svalbard, Kyrgyzstan, Austria, Canary Is., etc.). In our work we apply innovative methods and approaches, including geophysical, geodetical, remote sensing and monitoring techniques, combined with various environmental data to assess the landslide hazard and to propose suitable mitigation measures. We therefore often work as consultants for both state institutions and private enterprises.

2. Tectonics
The research focus of the team is the monitoring of the slow, yet omnipresent aseismic creep along tectonic faults. These movements, with velocity varying from centimetres in highly active areas to less than 0.01 millimetres/year in less active regions, accommodate part of the tectonic stress and thus their understanding is one of the crucial conditions for the development of forecasting of the earthquakes, the ultimate goal of tectonic and seismic research. Our dedicated network for the fault monitoring TecNet covers many countries in Europe and the World. Recently, we have advanced towards calculation of current stress field and its changes, based on our direct measurements on tectonic faults.

3. Monitoring and instruments development
Since 1970ies, the department team is very active in the development and applications of monitoring devices. Our specialty is a very precise 3D dilatometer TM-71, continuously developed form the first optical-mechanical models towards the current device with better precision, automatic reading, data transfer and processing. The improvements are partly aided by in-house design and production of new parts using 3D printing technology. We also test and apply the cutting-edge technologies and methods like TLS (terrestrial laser scanner or LiDAR), modern geophysical methods or UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles or drones).