CLARION participated in the 2nd Ports and Waterways Conference, organised by the Ports and Waterways team of TU Delft’s Hydraulic Engineering Department, with a presentation delivered in the session “Quay Wall Lifetime Extension”.
Luca Flessati participated on behalf of CLARION, presenting preliminary findings from PD1 – Smart & Sustainable Climate-Resilient Quay Walls, contributing directly to several of the session’s priority themes. The presentation shared early insights into the role of thermal actions on quay wall behaviour, demonstrated how data from smart quay walls can be combined with finite element modelling to support digital twin development, and highlighted the value of advanced subsurface modelling for more accurate structural assessments.
In addition, the presentation outlined potential pathways through which results from PD1 and PD2, focused on monitoring and managing corrosion in port infrastructure, could support future performance assessments of ageing quay walls.
The central message was clear: enhanced ground modelling approaches, building on standard in situ soil investigations but going beyond current design practice, can lead to significant practical benefits. These include optimised structural dimensions, reduced raw material use and associated CO₂ emission reductions, avoiding overly conservative design choices while maintaining safety and performance.
Through CLARION, research and innovation are translated into concrete solutions for more sustainable and climate-resilient ports.
