In the heart of Moscow, researchers at the Moscow Aviation Institute are tackling a geotechnical challenge that has long plagued the construction industry: karst sinkholes. These natural phenomena, caused by the dissolution of soluble rocks, can lead to catastrophic collapses, posing significant risks to buildings, infrastructure, and even human lives. The lead author, Evgeny M. Devyatkin, and his team have developed an innovative solution that could revolutionize how we approach karst formations, with profound implications for the energy sector.
The problem of karst sinkholes is not new, but the solutions have often been reactive rather than proactive. Devyatkin’s research, published in the journal ‘Nanotechnologies in Construction’, introduces a groundbreaking approach that combines nanotechnology with traditional construction methods to create a robust defense against karst phenomena. “The most effective way to protect against karst phenomena for already built or newly erected buildings and industrial facilities is to drill wells in the karst formation zone and inject reinforcing material,” Devyatkin explains. This material is a nano-cement mortar infused with nanosilicon, which significantly enhances the mortar’s properties.
The nano-cement mortar works by forming two critical layers within the karst formation zone. The lower insulating layer prevents water from accessing the karst voids, while the upper stabilizing layer reinforces the surface, reducing the risk of collapse. “When a reinforcing material in the form of nanosilicon with cement mortar is introduced into the rock thickness of the karst formation zone, forming a lower insulating and upper stabilizing layer that prevent water access to the karst at the depth of the karst rock and stabilize the surface,” Devyatkin elaborates. This dual-layer approach not only stabilizes the soil but also improves its physico-chemical and bearing properties, making it stronger and more resistant to landslides.
But the innovation doesn’t stop at stabilization. The research also introduces an intelligent diagnostic system that monitors the dynamics of hydrodynamic parameters within karst voids. By installing a permanent automated monitoring system equipped with motion sensors, pressure, and temperature gauges, the system can predict the occurrence and development of critical situations. “By monitoring the operation of sensors using artificial intelligence, it is possible to predict the occurrence and development of critical situations,” Devyatkin states. This predictive capability is a game-changer, allowing for timely interventions and potentially saving lives and infrastructure.
For the energy sector, the implications are vast. Many energy facilities, including power plants and pipelines, are built in areas prone to karst formations. The ability to stabilize these areas and predict potential collapses can prevent catastrophic failures, ensuring the continuous and safe operation of these critical infrastructure elements. Moreover, the use of nanotechnology in construction opens new avenues for enhancing the durability and safety of energy infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs, and extending the lifespan of facilities.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable development, innovations like Devyatkin’s nano-cement mortar offer a glimpse into a future where technology and nature coexist harmoniously. By leveraging the power of nanotechnology, we can build safer, more resilient structures that withstand the test of time and the forces of nature. This research, published in ‘Nanotechnologies in Construction’, is a testament to the transformative potential of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex geotechnical challenges.
