swissBEDROCK
swissBEDROCK is a predictive representation of the rock surface and the thickness of unconsolidated rock across Switzerland.
swissBEDROCK is a comprehensive dataset that provides detailed information on Switzerland’s bedrock surface. In addition to the bedrock elevation model (BEM), it includes information on the thickness of unconsolidated deposits (TMUD), details on uncertainty, authors and changes compared to previous versions. The dataset is structured as a multi-band raster dataset (10 x 10 meter raster cell size) with 11 information bands per cell.
It supports versioning for transparency and traceability and is maintained through automated updates within defined areas using new borehole and mapping information or replacements with third-party contributions.
A release notes file is provided detailing the origin and characteristics of the various model components. More information on the methodological overview and workflow can be found in the model description.
The full swissBEDROCK dataset can be viewed and queried on viewer.swissgeol.ch on a cell basis.
Applications
The boundary between solid rock and unconsolidated rock is crucial across various disciplines. This transition markedly alters most physical and chemical properties of deposits. Factors such as strength, lithology, conductivity, porosity, and permeability are significantly influenced by this interface. Hence, understanding its depth beneath the topographic surface is essential. It plays a key role in assessing groundwater resources, potential water contamination, and predicting natural hazards like landslides and debris-flow.