Supervisors: Dr. Michael Brown, University of Dundee and Dr, Ana Ivanovic, University of Aberdeen
PhD Student: Andreas Ziogos, University of Dundee
Status: Closed
The objective of the project is to develop a greater understanding of the material controls on the foundation interface behaviour of gravity based foundations on rock. The outcome of the research will be to develop a database of rock/foundation interface properties and improved design procedures that will lead to less conservative design for marine energy generators. It is hoped that through the research modifications to gravity based foundations on rock will also be developed that will enhance their capacity
Greater understanding of the rock/foundation interface behaviour will lead to the development of existing gravity foundation systems that can be deployed in more onerous situations. The use of gravity based systems will allow the movement of generators with low associated costs and will negate the need for costly permanent seabed anchoring systems. By understanding the current limitations of gravity structures to a greater degree it will allow the development of cost effective foundation modifications that will extend the safe working window of the system and allow deployment in more onerous stream conditions without risk to the generator and associated infrastructure.