Underwater Construction

Aspects of Civil Engineering

(February 12th, 2023)

Name Roll Number Section

Moosa Shahid 22L-7083 B

Submitted to: Sir Muhammad Muneeb and Malieka Batool

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

SHELBY COMPANY LIMITED, BIRMINGHAM

 DECLARATION

I, Moosa Shahid, solemnly declares that this report on Underwater Construction is my original
work. I further declare that I’ve strictly observed reporting ethics and dully discharged copy
right obligation and properly referred all outsourcing of materials used in this report. I take the
responsibility for all legal and ethical requirements regarding this report.

Signature: Moosa Shahid

Name: Moosa Shahid

Roll Number: 22L-7083

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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The joy and delight of successfully completing any project would be incomplete without
acknowledging the people who made it achievable and under whose support and motivation it
was accomplished. We truly thank Dr. Thomas Shelby, Principal of the Civil Department,
NUCES, Lahore for his assistance, cooperation, and inspiring words. We also thank Dr. Arthur
Shelby, Head of the Civil Department for his assistance and backing. We sincerely appreciate
our supervisor Mr. John Shelby, Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering
who provided us with his valuable advice and devoted time to help us complete our work. His
leadership gave us the atmosphere to enhance our knowledge, and abilities to reach the peak
through sheer commitment, dedication, and effort. Last but not the least, we express our
heartfelt gratitude to Almighty and our friends who gave a lot of suggestions to complete this
report successfully.

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 UNDERWATER
CONSTRUCTION
A REPORT BY
MOOSA SHAHID

FEBUARY 12,2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction: .............................................................................................. 1
1.1. Why is underwater construction needed?........................................................................... 1

2. Techniques of underwater construction: .................................................. 2

2.1. Cofferdam:............................................................................................................................. 2
2.1.1. Types of Cofferdam: ..................................................................................................... 2
2.1.2. Advantages of cofferdams ............................................................................................ 3
2.2. Caisson: .................................................................................................................................. 4
2.2.1. Types of Caisson: .......................................................................................................... 5
2.2.2. Advantages of caissons: ................................................................................................ 5

3. Methods of underwater construction: ...................................................... 6

3.1. Tremie method: ..................................................................................................................... 6
3.2. Pump method: ....................................................................................................................... 6
3.3. Toggle bag method: ............................................................................................................... 7

4. Examples of underwater construction:..................................................... 8

4.1. The Eiksund Bridge: ............................................................................................................. 8
4.2. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant: ................................................................................................. 9
4.3. Aquarium Restaurant: ....................................................................................................... 10

5. Challenges: ............................................................................................... 11
6. Conclusion:............................................................................................... 12
7. References: ............................................................................................... 13
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Underwater Construction ....................................................................................... 1

Figure 2:Cofferdam ............................................................................................................... 3
Figure 3: Caisson ................................................................................................................... 4
Figure 4:Tremie Method ....................................................................................................... 6
Figure 5:Pump Method ......................................................................................................... 6
Figure 6:Toggle bag method.................................................................................................. 7
Figure 7: Eiksund Bridge ........................................................................................................ 8
Figure 8: Ithaa Restaurant ..................................................................................................... 9
Figure 9: Aquarium Restaurant ........................................................................................... 10

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 : Challenges ............................................................................................................ 11

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
P.C.C : Plain Cement Concrete ............................................................................................. 3
R.C.C : Reinforced Cement Concrete ................................................................................... 3
1. Introduction:

Creating structures below the surface of the water is an essential part of construction projects.
It is very challenging to accomplish due to the intricate logistic involved. Its importance in the
project is more than just the concrete jobs. In general, it is feasible to build underwater concrete
with the same level of dependability as above water construction. Engineering experts identify
it as one of the hardest tasks. If it is not done correctly with the right combination of concrete
and placement process, it can result in a high cost and delay in the timeline of the project. To
decrease the risks and prices, a competent construction planning and good design are vital.

1.1. Why is underwater construction needed?

Underwater construction is an important and complex practice that requires specialized

knowledge, skill, and equipment. Structures such as ports, docks, pipelines, and platforms
are typically built underwater, and they can be used for oil and gas extraction, commercial
and recreational fishing, as well as scientific research. Building underwater requires divers
or remotely operated vehicles, depending on the depth, and it is important to ensure the
safety of the people involved. To do this, the environment needs to be carefully assessed,
the necessary engineering and design plans created, and the materials and equipment must
be suitable for the environment. The construction process itself consists of a number of
steps such as excavation and dredging, installation of foundations and supports, materials
assembly and welding, and proper monitoring and testing of the structure. With proper
planning and execution, underwater construction can be done successfully and safely.

Figure 1: Underwater Construction

2. Techniques of underwater construction:

Underwater construction involves a variety of techniques and tools to build structures in

underwater environments. The main tools used in underwater construction include air lifts,
dredging machines, and specialized cutting and welding tools. Working underwater requires
specialized knowledge and experience. For example, divers may need to be familiar with
pressure compensators, protective equipment, and safety regulations. Some of the common
techniques used in underwater construction include piling, sheeting, segmental blocks, and
precast P.C.C forming. Piling is often used to create a foundation for a structure and involves
driving a pile into the seabed. Sheeting involves driving steel sheets into the seabed to create a
platform or wall. Segmental blocks are large concrete blocks that are placed and joined together
underwater. Lastly, precast or R.C.C forming involves creating concrete structures on land and
then transporting them to the location of the construction underwater.

2.1. Cofferdam:

A cofferdam is a temporary structure used for construction or repair in a body of water. It

is typically constructed by enclosing an area with sheet piling, which is then filled with
water in order to create a dry work environment. Cofferdams are often used for bridge and
tunnel construction, as well as for dam repairs. The enclosed area is filled with water to
exclude the water from the surrounding area, and then drained to expose the bottom of the
area. Cofferdams are also frequently used to construct piers and other structures in a dry
environment.

2.1.1. Types of Cofferdam:

They are used to enclose an area that is to be filled with water or that needs to be
dewatered. There are several types of cofferdams, each with its own advantages and
disadvantages. The most common types are earthen, rockfill, single-walled, double-
walled, braced, and cellular cofferdams. Earthen cofferdams are the simplest and most
cost-effective type, as they are constructed from natural soil. They are ideal for low-
head applications, such as those found in shallow water bodies. Rockfill cofferdams are

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constructed from large stones, gravel, or other rock materials. They provide greater
stability and can be used in deeper water with higher water pressure. Crib or braced
cofferdams are constructed from interlocking beams and are suitable for deeper
applications. Single-walled cofferdams are constructed from one layer of sheet piling
and are used in applications where space is limited. Double-walled cofferdams are
constructed from two layers of sheet piling and are used to contain high water pressure.
Cellular cofferdams are constructed from multiple cells and can be used to contain high
water pressure in large areas.

2.1.2. Advantages of cofferdams

Performing work over water has always been more difficult and costlier than
performing the same work on land. And when the work is performed below water, the
difficulties and cost difference can increase geometrically with the depth at which the
work is performed. The key to performing marine construction work efficiently is to
minimize work over water, and perform as much of the work as possible on land. Some
of the advantages of cofferdams are listed below;
 Allow excavation and construction of structures in otherwise poor environment.
 Provides safe environment to work.
 Contractors typically have design responsibility.
 Steel sheet piles are easily installed and removed.
 Materials can typically be reused on other projects.

Figure 2:Cofferdam

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2.2. Caisson:

Caisson is a box-like structure used in construction work underwater or as a

foundation. It is usually rectangular or circular in plan and may be constructed from a
variety of materials such as wood, steel, or reinforced concrete. Caissons are
constructed in such a way that the water can be pumped out, keeping the work
environment dry. They are typically used for the construction of piers, quay walls, and
other deep excavations, as well as for the installation of manholes and other utility
networks. A caisson is a watertight structure which is used as an “anchor” for a
foundation, think of it like this, you need to build a pier.

Figure 3: Caisson

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2.2.1. Types of Caisson:

Caisson foundations are an important type of foundation used to provide stability and
support to structures. They are watertight retaining structures used in the construction
of bridges, dams, and ship repairs. They are constructed by auguring a deep hole into
the ground and then filling it with concrete. Steel reinforcement is sometimes utilized
for a portion of the length of the caisson. [1]Types of caissons include box caissons,
excavated caissons, floating caissons, open caissons, pneumatic caissons, compressed
air caissons, and monolithic caissons. Box caissons are the most common and are used
for foundations, manholes, and other structural tasks. Open caissons are less expensive
but not suitable for soft grounds or high-water tables. Monolithic caissons are the
largest and are used for quay walls. Pneumatic caissons (sometimes called pressurized
caissons) are bottomless boxes that are filled with air to penetrate soft mud.

2.2.2. Advantages of caissons:

Caissons are an important type of structure used in many industries, including

construction, marine engineering, and bridge building. They are invaluable for working
in deep water and on unstable land. Here are some of the advantages of using caissons:
[2]
 Cost-effectiveness: Caissons are more cost-effective than traditional
foundations, as they take less time and resources to construct.
 Durability: Caissons are made of strong materials, making them highly durable
and able to withstand even the most extreme conditions.
 Versatility: Caissons can be used for a variety of purposes, from building
support for bridges to constructing docks and breakwaters.
 Quick construction time: Due to the pre-fabricated nature of caissons, they can
be constructed quickly, saving time and money.

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3. Methods of underwater construction:

3.1. Tremie method:

Tremie technique is a very popular practice for

laying concrete underwater. It requires utilizing a
steel pipe that has a diameter of 15 to 30 cm and is
long enough to reach the bottom of the water body
while keeping the top end above the water surface.
The top part of the pipe is attached with a hopper
which is used to fill the pipe with concrete.
Moreover, a check valve is affixed at the bottom
of the pipe before submerging it. The newly
blended concrete is then poured through the
hopper, pushing the water and air out of the pipe
till it reaches the bed. Figure 4:Tremie Method

3.2. Pump method:

The use of pumping to apply concrete underwater

is an advanced form of the Tremie pipe method and
is a speedier technique for areas that are tricky to
get to, such as beneath piers. Pumping has some
huge advantages that the Tremie pipe lacks, such as
the concrete being poured directly from the mixer
into the formworks, the prevention of any
blockages in the pipe since concreting is done by
pumping instead of gravity, and the risk of
segregation is lessened.

Figure 5:Pump Method

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3.3. Toggle bag method:

The Toggle Bag method is beneficial when only a limited quantity of concrete is needed.
A bag made out of canvas that is locked at the top using a chain and fastened with toggles
is filled with concrete and placed accurately in the specified area. After that, the concrete
is expelled through the aperture located at the base of the bag.

Figure 6:Toggle bag method

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4. Examples of underwater construction:

4.1. The Eiksund Bridge:

The Eiksund Bridge, at a length of 405 meters (1,329 ft), and the Helge horn Tunnel at
1,160 meters (3,810 ft) were both constructed in conjunction with the tunnel. The entire
project cost an estimated 500 million r. It was planned to be available for public use in July
2007, but it got postponed due to delays until December 2007, when it was later moved to
2008. It eventually opened to traffic on the 23rd of February 2008.The Eiksund Tunnel was
created through the process of drilling and blasting and required 1,300 tonnes of explosives
to be used. Additionally, 660,000 cubic meters of rock were removed in the construction
process.

Figure 7: Eiksund Bridge

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4.2. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant:

In May 2004, the process of building Ithaa commenced in Singapore. By October, the
construction was completed with the inclusion of 5-meter wide acrylic arches, air
conditioning, and electrical ducts. On November 1, the structure was lifted and put on a
barge to be transported to the Maldives, taking 16 days. When it reached, it weighed 175
tonnes. On the 19th of the same month, Ithaa was placed in the sea with the use of 85 tonnes
of sand ballast. It was precisely maneuvered onto four steel piles that had been hammered
around 4 to 5 meters into the seabed. After, it was attached to the piles with concrete. It is
expected to last for a period of 20 years. [3]

Figure 8: Ithaa Restaurant

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4.3. Aquarium Restaurant:

During October of 2017, Snøhetta unveiled its plans for the very first underwater restaurant
in Europe. It would be situated near the village of Baly, which is located at Norway's
southernmost tip. Not only that, but this restaurant would also serve as a research center for
aquatic species. The restaurant, dubbed 'Under', would be partially submerged in a 5-meter
deep body of water and its imposing structure would be visible above the water's surface.
Guests would be able to gaze through the massive 11 x 4 meters acrylic windows, allowing
them to observe the seafloor as it changes due to the seasons and the weather.

Figure 9: Aquarium Restaurant

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5. Challenges:
Creating structures below the surface of the water is an essential part of construction projects.
It is very challenging to accomplish due to the intricate logistic involved. If it is not done
correctly with the right combination of concrete and placement process, it can result in a high
cost and delay in the timeline. Some of the challenges are described below in the table.
Table 1 : Challenges

Budget Constructing underwater requires a

considerable amount of money due to the
utilization of heavy machinery, equipment, and
expert staff. Additionally, the process may come
with a hefty price tag due to the associated
benefits.

Erosion Erosion is the process of weathering and

movement of solid matter (such as sediment,
soil, rock, and other rock particles) from its
original location to different areas in the natural
environment. This usually happens due to
transportation by way of wind, water, or ice, so
engineers must select the proper materials for
construction projects in aquatic environments.

Location of fuel It is possible for coincidences to occur when

drilling machines and other equipment are
attempting to locate oil, or a ship may even
cause damage to a building's appearance and
structure, which is beyond control.

Pressure problem Pressure plays a significant role in influencing

the regulations of the construction procedure,
and people often experience difficulties either
during the construction phase or during the
inspection phase.

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6. Conclusion:

This report investigated the current trend of construction of structures below the surface of the
water. Building under the ocean is a modern innovation that has a positive impact on the
environment. This document informed us of what underwater structures are. It also discussed
the environmental and social impacts of underwater constructions. It looked into the materials
which can be used for underwater construction. It likewise recognized the challenges
encountered during the building of underwater structures. It outlined the air flow systems used.
It went on to provide the reader with examples of underwater constructions that have already
been built or are still being constructed, in order to astonish them with the wonderful scenery
and the magnificence of the constructions.

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7. References:

[1] BUILDER, "THE CONSTRUCTOR," 12 Febuary 2023. [Online]. Available:

https://theconstructor.org/geotechnical/caisson-types-construction-advantages/503/.

[2] "Wikipedia," [Online]. Available:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caisson_(engineering)#:~:text=The%20four%20main%20types%
20of,pneumatic%20caisson%20and%20monolithic%20caisson.. [Accessed 13 Febuary 2023].

[3] "Conrad," [Online]. Available: https://www.conradmaldives.com/dine/ithaa-undersea-

restaurant/. [Accessed 12 Febuary 2023].

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