Geotechnical challenges in the extreme antarctic environment

Overview

Rothera Research Station, the largest British Antarctic facility, is a centre for biological research and a hub for supporting deep-field and air operations. As part of the new BAS Modernisation Programme a new wharf was constructed at Rothera to provide safe berthing and efficient operations for the new 129-metre long Polar Research Vessel, the RRS Sir David Attenborough.

This modernisation contract was awarded to BAM with initial design and planning commencing in 2018 to allow the first phase of construction to start in the Antarctic summer of 2019. BAM Ritchies was involved in the geotechnical aspects of the construction, including blasting to produce rockfill, rock anchoring and grouting.

In this presentation, Jim Shields, Operations Manager of BAM Ritchies, will outline the planning carried out to determine the correct drilling rig types and drilling equipment required to work in such harsh environments.

Furthermore, Jim will explain how BAM Ritchies carried out extensive grout trials, replicating the environments anticipated on site to ensure a mix design could meet the required specifications. Jim will also introduce you to the environment experienced by those on site.