Duration: 1995 to 2008

The research project investigated recent tectonic stresses in the Earth's lithosphere (consisting of the Earth's crust and upper mantle). The World Stress Map dataset was continuously expanded through critical evaluation of newly available data. Information on the stress field was obtained from earthquake focus solutions, borehole geometry data (borehole blowouts, hydraulically induced fractures), geological indicators (distribution of volcanoes, faults), and overdrilling techniques. In the intermediate depth range (1–5 km), the tectonic stress field was determined from borehole measurements in collaboration with international research institutions and industry.

The database and stress maps are available online in their current form to all interested parties. (https://www.world-stress-map.org).

The research focus of the Academy project was on the interpretation and numerical simulation of stress data with regard to stress sources as well as regional and local stress fields. The primary aim was to investigate mechanisms of stress transfer and concentration. Tectonic stresses are responsible not only for large-scale, slow plate tectonic movements but also for local and short-term phenomena such as earthquakes. The applications of stress maps range from basic geoscientific research to the planning of injection and production wells in the oil industry and in geothermal energy extraction.

Chair of the Commission

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Dr. h.c. Helmut Kipphan

Research Center Director

Prof. Dr. Friedemann Wenzel

Dr. Oliver Heidbach (Deputy Director)

Staff Members

Dipl.-Geophys. Andreas Barth

Dr. Birgit Müller

Johannes Altmann

Dr. Karl Fuchs, Prof. em. (Scientific Advisor)