Constructing on black shale

Black shale represents a growing challenge in the Oslo region: it may cause structural damage to the buildings above and may contain radioactive minerals leading to damaging contaminated run-off. The Oslo region needs an area for deposition of black shale material.

Blasting and excavation in black shale often lead to swelling when this rock type comes into contact with water and air. Such has been the explanation for large structural damage to buildings in the Oslo region. Rain and moisture on exposed black shale can result in contaminated run-off which may endanger both vegetation and fish. Black shale may also erradiate nuclear and radon gas, which may present cancer risk.

It may be difficult to differentiate between harmful and other black shales. The Black Shale research project run at NGI developed a method for classification of black shale into three risk categories. New guidelines for handling of black shale and methods for reduction of potential harmful effects were also prepared. A site for the safe disposal of black shale needs to be established for the Oslo region. The local industry and business community should apply to the county governor for a licence for such new disposal site.

The Research Council of Norway provided financial support to this research on Black Shale (2006 - 2009) run in collaboration with the Norwegian industry.

Constructing on Alum Shale in Akersgata in Oslo.