Optimising Offshore Wind Turbine Foundations Through Investigation of Pile Ageing Effects

Project Description

Offshore wind foundations contribute significantly to the overall development costs of wind turbines, which can be lessened through more efficient design. Allowing for pile ageing effects in design can significantly reduce the costs and risks associated with installation of the foundations. This project aims to undertake a systematic investigation of the underlying mechanisms and contributing factors for ageing in pile foundations through model- and field scale experimental testing, supported with microscopic investigations. Ultimately, the research aims to develop improved methods for the geotechnical design of foundations, resulting in significant cost reductions for offshore renewable energy infrastructure