Launch of the European SIRIMA project

The SIRIMA project is a European project funded by the RFCS (Research Fund for Coal and Steel) for a period of 3 years (2024 - 2027). Coordinated by the Polish Institute of Mining (GIG), it focuses on localized collapses, the most significant hazard in the post-mining era. SIRIMA brings together nine partners from four European countries (France, Poland, Germany and Spain), including Ineris.
As part of the project, new methodologies will be implemented to study the conditions for the occurrence of sinkholes in former mining areas where the water table has returned to its natural level, and also to reduce risks. The project also includes the development of a European database that will harness current computing and technological capabilities to establish a new approach to these risks. The work will also include a study of the impact of ground movements on structures.

The role of Ineris

Through the SIRIMA project, Ineris is responding to objective no. 3 of its Contract of Objectives and Performance: “To assess the residual risks and impacts associated with the post-operational use of mines, including fossil fuels, and to manage them, including in the reconversion phase”.

Ineris' contribution includes the creation of a European database of “fontis”-type ground movements associated with abandoned shallow coal mines in Europe. Ineris will also carry out advanced analyses to improve the prediction of such phenomena. To this end, it will exploit the database developed to identify the main factors in the occurrence of fontis.

As a member of SIRIMA, Ineris will also be involved in the valorization, communication and dissemination of results throughout the three years of the project.