The 3rd DemoDay at the GeoTechnikum at HTWK Leipzig provided practical insights into cone penetration testing in spoil heaps
How can spoil heaps from opencast lignite mining be reliably investigated and assessed? This question was the focus of the 3rd DemoDay on cone penetration testing at the GeoTechnikum at HTWK Leipzig. Experts from industry and academia, as well as students, used the event to discuss the specific requirements of cone penetration testing in spoil heaps, its practical implementation and the subsequent data analysis.
Slag heap soils are among the most geotechnically challenging ground conditions found in former and active lignite mining areas. As artificially relocated soils, they often exhibit uneven stratification and highly variable properties. This makes investigation methods that precisely map and reliably assess the subsoil all the more important. Pressure probing is a particularly suitable method for this purpose, as it provides key parameters of the ground and thus creates a sound basis for planning and assessment.
Theoretical foundations with practical insights
The programme for the 3rd DemoDay combined theoretical principles with practical insights. Following a welcome address by Prof. Ralf Thiele, Professor of Geotechnical Engineering and Head of the Institute of Geotechnical Engineering at HTWK Leipzig, there followed an introduction to cone penetration testing by Gerald Verbeek of Royal Eijkelkamp, as well as a presentation on the practical requirements and the conduct of cone penetration testing in spoil heaps by Dr Martin Müller of GMB GmbH, a service provider specialising in cone penetration testing. The afternoon focused on a demonstration of a cone penetration test and a dynamic penetration test, the analysis of the data obtained, and a technical exchange with the speakers. The demonstrations took place at the GeoTechnikum’s test sites.
With this event, the Institute of Geotechnical Engineering at HTWK Leipzig is further expanding its long-standing collaboration with Royal Eijkelkamp. Another event is already being planned and is scheduled to take place in November 2026.
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