How to protect our Nature - Chemistry in TBM tunnelling. From the laboratory to on-site use and muck disposal

Abstract: All tunnelling methods need chemical additives - modern tunnel construction without chemicals is utterly impossible. When using chemicals, it is important to investigate not only their efficiency but also their environmental impacts – which mean they shall be carefully selected. Technically perfect products are not necessarily a good choice for the environment. Health & environmental related chemical impacts like carcinogenicity, toxicity, biodegradation and the use of renewable raw materials will be discussed in detail.