CLARION took part in the Numerical Methods in Geotechnics 2026 workshop, held in Hamburg on 17–18 September 2026. The event brought together experts to discuss advanced numerical approaches in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on deformation-based design and numerical optimisation.
Representing TU Delft and the CLARION project, Luca Flessati delivered the presentation “Toward displacement-based design of quay walls.”
Advancing quay wall design
Maritime quay walls are essential components of port infrastructure. They support safe vessel berthing and efficient cargo-handling operations. However, their structural performance strongly depends on the interaction between the quay wall and the surrounding soil.
Conventional design approaches often simplify this interaction by assuming predefined active and passive earth pressures. Flessati’s presentation explored a different approach, based on displacement-based design methodologies that more explicitly consider soil–structure interaction and realistic deformation behaviour.
By incorporating these aspects into the design process, the methodology can contribute to more efficient, economical and reliable quay wall solutions.
From research to the Port of Rotterdam
The presentation also featured a case study on a new quay wall at the Port of Rotterdam, connecting numerical modelling with a real port infrastructure application.
This work is closely linked to CLARION’s activities on smart and sustainable climate-resilient quay walls. Within the project, TU Delft leads research aimed at improving quay wall design, extending infrastructure lifetime and increasing resilience while reducing the use of materials and the associated environmental impact.
Participation in specialist events such as Numerical Methods in Geotechnics 2026 helps bring CLARION’s research into the wider technical and scientific debate. It also creates opportunities to exchange knowledge on how advanced engineering approaches can support more resilient European ports.
