In the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, a significant engineering feat is underway near Omišalj on the island of Krk. The construction of a pier for liquefied natural gas (LNG) is not just a logistical challenge but also a testament to human ingenuity in the face of geological obstacles. The project, detailed in a recent study published in ‘Građevinar’, the Croatian journal of engineering, has revealed the complexities and innovations involved in deepening the seabed for safe navigation and construction.
The seabed near the planned LNG terminal presented a formidable challenge. Hydrographic measurements uncovered three shoals at depths of 13.5 and 13.6 meters, far shallower than the required 15.4 meters for safe navigation. This discovery necessitated a meticulous approach to excavation, given the delicate balance between safety and environmental impact.
Lead author Leo Matešić, whose affiliation is not specified, delved into the geological fabric of the seabed using advanced hydroacoustic surveys and remote operating vehicles. The findings were clear: the shoals were formed in a solid carbonate rock mass, a type of rock known for its durability and resistance to erosion. “The geological structure was a significant hurdle,” Matešić noted, “but it also provided an opportunity to innovate in our excavation techniques.”
The excavation process was a marvel of modern engineering. Special technology was employed to excavate the rock mass without the use of blasting, a method that could have caused significant environmental disruption. Over 11,000 cubic meters of rock mass were carefully removed and deposited nearby, altering the seabed habitat over an area of approximately 12,500 square meters. This precision was crucial not only for the safety of navigation but also for minimizing the ecological footprint of the project.
The commercial implications of this project are vast. The LNG terminal on the island of Krk is set to become a pivotal hub for energy distribution in the region. The Adriatic Sea, with its strategic location, offers a gateway to both Eastern and Western European markets. The successful deepening of the seabed ensures that large vessels can safely navigate the waters, facilitating the efficient transport of LNG and bolstering the region’s energy security.
This project serves as a blueprint for future developments in the energy sector. As the demand for LNG continues to rise, so does the need for innovative solutions to overcome geological and environmental challenges. The techniques employed in this project, particularly the non-blasting excavation method, could become standard practice in similar endeavors. Matešić emphasized, “Our approach not only ensures safety and efficiency but also sets a new standard for environmentally responsible construction in marine environments.”
The study, published in ‘Građevinar’, which translates to ‘Civil Engineer’ in English, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling complex engineering challenges. The integration of hydroacoustic surveys, remote operating vehicles, and specialized excavation techniques highlights the evolving landscape of marine construction. As we look to the future, projects like this will undoubtedly shape the way we approach energy infrastructure development, balancing commercial needs with environmental stewardship.