Geotechnics

The many years of experience accumulated in the Department Geotechnical Engineering combined with an excellent infrastructure for testing and trials are in demand whenever complex geotechnical issues arise in connection with the maintenance and development of inland and coastal waterways. We also investigate ground and groundwater conditions, produce recommendations for foundation engineering, provide support with bank and bottom protection measures and advise on issues relating to soil dynamics. Construction works involving existing structures, in particular, require specific method expertise: For instance, it is important to understand the complex interactions taking place between a structure, the water and the ground when deep excavation sites are adjacent to locks or weirs in operation.

Climate change, environmental protection and the ‘energy transition’ all present us with new challenges regarding expertise and methods. Projects such as offshore wind farms with turbine foundations anchored in the seabed where water depths are currently around 35 m to 40 m, or nature-orientated upgrading of banks and ecological enhancements of river landscapes are worth highlighting. It is especially in such projects that research and practice are closely intertwined, laying the foundation for new standards and guidelines. We are also continuously developing our models and methods.

In our research and development we work on projects that have resulted from our consulting activities, and in addition produce guidelines, codes of practice and standards. We also hold science colloquia and trainings.