Marine Geotechnical Characterization for the Expansion of the Port of Melilla
- Year: 2024 – Present
- Client: Port Authority of Melilla (Puertos del Estado)
- UTE: ESSAY
- Location: Melilla, Spain.
The Port of Melilla is a key infrastructure for the economic development of the Autonomous City of Melilla
As part of its evolution, the Port Authority of Melilla (Puertos del Estado) has launched an ambitious expansion project, which includes the construction of a new 400-metre quay within the main dock, extending from the marina's breakwater.
This project seeks to improve the port's operational capacity, optimising its connectivity with strategic markets in the Western Mediterranean, North Africa and Northern Europe. To this end, a detailed geotechnical characterisation has been carried out, a fundamental step to guarantee the technical feasibility and safety of the port infrastructure.
SONDEOS & ENSAYOS
SOCOTEC Marine Geotechnical Services
SOCOTEC has been the company in charge of carrying out the geotechnical reconnaissance campaign.
Their participation in this project reinforces their experience in marine geotechnical studies for large port infrastructures.
The works have included:
- Marine and terrestrial soundings to determine the characteristics of the subsoil.
- On-site and laboratory tests to evaluate geomechanical properties of the terrain.
- Sampling with different techniques for accurate characterization of soil and materials.
- Geotechnical analysis and interpretation for the definition of the construction design of the extension.
SOCOTEC has been the company in charge of carrying out the geotechnical reconnaissance campaign.
Their participation in this project reinforces their experience in marine geotechnical studies for large port infrastructures.
The works have included:
- Marine and terrestrial soundings to determine the characteristics of the subsoil.
- On-site and laboratory tests to evaluate geomechanical properties of the terrain.
- Sampling with different techniques for accurate characterization of soil and materials.
- Geotechnical analysis and interpretation for the definition of the construction design of the extension.
Actions carried out in the port of Melilla
In order to obtain a detailed knowledge of the geotechnical conditions, SOCOTEC has carried out the following works:
Geotechnical Prospecting
- 8 marine soundings, with depths of between 13.70 m and 21 m from the seabed.
- 2 land boreholes of 35 m on the existing slope breakwater.
Testing and Sampling
- 4 CPTU (Cone Penetration Test with pore pressure measurement) tests to characterize the resistance and consolidation of the soil.
- 19 vibrocors to obtain unaltered samples from the seabed.
- 2 seismic refraction profiles of 120 m each, to analyze the internal structure of the subsoil.
- 2 pits in the area of esplanades and projected roads.
- Extraction and analysis of surface samples with Van Veen dredger.
- Laboratory tests for the determination of physical and mechanical properties of materials.
These works have made it possible to obtain detailed information on the lithology, the geomechanics of the materials, the tidal oscillation and the excavability of the land, key aspects for the planning of the expansion of the port.
MARINE GEOTECHNICAL MACHINERY
Jack-up Platform Installation
To carry out the soundings in the marine environment, a Jack-up platform has been used, a specialized mobile structure that allows working in safe and stable conditions on the water.
Advantages of the Jack-up Platform in the Project:
- Stability: Allows for high-precision drilling without interference from marine conditions.
- Accessibility: It facilitates access to areas with variable depths, adapting to the needs of the studio.
- Efficiency: Optimizes the execution of boreholes and tests, reducing work times.
The use of this technology has been fundamental for the success of the geotechnical characterization, guaranteeing the quality and reliability of the data obtained.
To carry out the soundings in the marine environment, a Jack-up platform has been used, a specialized mobile structure that allows working in safe and stable conditions on the water.
Advantages of the Jack-up Platform in the Project:
- Stability: Allows for high-precision drilling without interference from marine conditions.
- Accessibility: It facilitates access to areas with variable depths, adapting to the needs of the studio.
- Efficiency: Optimizes the execution of boreholes and tests, reducing work times.
The use of this technology has been fundamental for the success of the geotechnical characterization, guaranteeing the quality and reliability of the data obtained.
We are experts in Geotechnical Characterization for ports
SOCOTEC has extensive experience in marine geotechnical studies, having participated in strategic projects in various ports in Spain, including some of the largest in Spain such as the Port of Valencia or the Port of Barcelona, with which we collaborate on a regular basis.
This background reinforces SOCOTEC's commitment to excellence in the characterization of the seabed, ensuring solutions adapted to the specific needs of each port project.
With this new study in the Port of Melilla, SOCOTEC continues to consolidate itself as a benchmark in the field of geotechnics applied to maritime infrastructures.
Contact us to learn more about our services
If you are looking for a strategic partner for reliable and efficient geotechnical surveys, contact us and find out how we can add value to your project.