The project aims to clarify the problems, challenges and opportunities associated with the design of various foundations for transmission-line towers, pipelines (for oil, gas or water), buildings and road structures, such as bridges and gutters, in permafrost regions threatened by climate changes.The effects of climate changes are e.g. that permafr... More...

The project aims to clarify the problems, challenges and opportunities associated with the design of various foundations for transmission-line towers, pipelines (for oil, gas or water), buildings and road structures, such as bridges and gutters, in permafrost regions threatened by climate changes.The effects of climate changes are e.g. that permafrost areas are converting to tundra areas with their increasingly difficult building conditions. The project idea is to establish a basis for further investigations, and, ideally, to present some attractive, environmentally friendly and economical solutions applicable in practical design. Emphasis will be put on using local materials and know-how, if applicable. Furthermore, ways will be investigated for participation by local companies in large projects in given areas, through new knowledge gained in this project. This would involve expected users of the new technologies and thereby demonstrate and ensure that the project meets a clear demand from the market (construction and infrastructure owners).

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Currently, large companies use pre-fabricated concrete or steel blocks for transmission-line tower or pipeline foundations, and transportation and installation of these impacts vast areas, often without input from local engineers. This project will consider this fact, and propose ways to involve local partners having appropriate knowhow. To introd... More...

• Currently, large companies use pre-fabricated concrete or steel blocks for transmission-line tower or pipeline foundations, and transportation and installation of these impacts vast areas, often without input from local engineers. This project will consider this fact, and propose ways to involve local partners having appropriate knowhow.
• To introduce a “state of the art” with participating partners. To clarify what knowledge exists in the field and its appropriate application today within the permafrost regions. Both theoretical and practical approaches will be considered.
• To determine the scope of the final project in geographical and main topic contexts and the project’s future application. Definition of the areas under threat of climate change will be done, and the effect of climatic change on foundations in permafrost conditions will also be examined.
• To formulate the basis for further investigation and testing of a new idea that uses prefabricated fiberglass elements, instead of the commonly used concrete or steel units.
• Investigate the environmental and economical gain expected from the new methodologies and technology comperad to the conventional ones.

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