Marine Filling

LCM ROTA Marine is capable of performing underwater filling operations at designated locations. These applications are typically used for seabed improvement, pipeline backfilling, and breakwater construction. Such operations are carried out using our split hopper barges.

Selected projects include:

• TP-OTC Filyos Port Underwater Filling Project
• Istanbul Maiden’s Tower Reclamation Project
• Safi Derince International Port Marine Filling Project
• Zeytinburnu Ayvalıdere Rock Revetment Construction
• Solventas Port Reclamation and Ground Improvement Works
• Çolakoğlu Port Seabed Improvement and Marine Filling Works

What Is Sea Filling?

Sea filling refers to the process of creating land by placing suitable materials into the sea, either from the shoreline or through offshore methods. This process allows the construction of artificial land areas such as islands, peninsulas, and expanded coastal zones.

Reclamation is widely used to:

• Create new land for infrastructure and construction
• Expand existing coastal facilities
• Protect shorelines

Improper execution, such as the use of unsuitable materials or lack of engineering control, may significantly reduce project quality and increase risk. Therefore, all operations must be carried out using proper design, qualified materials, and experienced teams.

How Is Marine Filling Performed?

Sea filling is a complex engineering process with multiple methodologies.

Shore-Based Filling Method

The most commonly used and cost-effective method is shore-based filling. In this method:

• Materials are transported by trucks and discharged into the sea
• Perimeter protection (typically rock armor) is constructed first
• Internal areas are then filled progressively

This approach ensures that fill material remains stable and is not dispersed by wave action.

Structural Support (Pile-Supported Fill)

In cases where the filled area will be subjected to high loads, such as port structures:

a) Piles may be installed to improve stability

b) Piles are driven into the seabed and may be anchored with cables where necessary

Block-Type Quay Method

Another method involves the use of large concrete blocks:

• Concrete blocks are stacked to form a boundary
• The area is then filled with suitable material
• Additional rock placement is used to stabilize the structure

Key Considerations in Sea Filling Projects

For a durable and safe project, the following parameters must be carefully analyzed:

• Significant wave height
• Wave period
• Dominant wave direction
• Coastal morphology

In addition, all designs must comply with coastal regulations and applicable legislation. Continuous monitoring after project completion is also essential to detect and correct any changes in coastal dynamics.

Reclamation for Port Construction

Port reclamation projects involve creating new land areas by filling the sea using suitable materials. These projects typically include:

• Seabed improvement
• Controlled filling operations
• Formation of new operational areas

Reclaimed landforms the foundation of port infrastructure. Due to heavy operational loads and intense traffic, these projects require precise engineering and execution with no margin for error.

Filling Methods Used in Port Projects

Different filling methods may be applied depending on site conditions:

• Shoreline Filling: Most widely used method, cost-effective, suitable for calm sea conditions
• Controlled Rock Placement: Ensures stability of fill material, prevents dispersion due to waves
• Block Placement Method: Uses heavy concrete units (approx. 20 tons), Blocks are placed and stabilized with rock

Cost Factors in Reclamation Projects

The cost of sea filling projects depends on several factors:

• Project size and scope
• Seabed conditions
• Material type and quantity
• Equipment used
• Transport distances

The primary objective is to deliver high-quality results within the planned timeframe using optimized resources.

Additional Reclamation Works

Additional filling may be required after project completion due to:

• Expansion of port capacity
• Increased logistical demand
• Changes in project requirements

These works are carefully re-planned and executed based on updated site conditions and engineering analysis.

Why Is Additional Filling Required?

Additional filling is typically carried out to:

• Expand existing reclaimed areas
• Improve ground strength
• Adapt to changing environmental conditions (depth, wave action, tides)

Such operations require detailed site monitoring and phased execution due to the large volume of materials involved.

Seabed Improvement and Underwater Filling

Seabed improvement and underwater filling projects are carried out using specialized equipment and experienced personnel.

These operations include:

• Removal of weak seabed materials
• Replacement with suitable fill materials
• Controlled placement using split hopper barge systems

Split hopper barges discharge material by opening the hull, allowing precise placement on the seabed.

Filling Methods

The preferred filling method is typically shoreline filling due to its cost efficiency. However, alternative methods may be applied depending on project conditions.

Before filling begins:

• Rock protection layers are installed
• Fill material is placed progressively

Another widely used method is the block quay system, where concrete units are placed and stabilized with rock layers.

Project Cost Considerations

The cost of underwater filling projects varies depending on:

• Time constraints
• Equipment selection
• Material specifications

All processes are managed by experienced teams using advanced equipment to ensure quality and timely delivery.

Critical Engineering Factors

For successful execution, the following must be evaluated:

• Maximum water depth
• Wave characteristics
• Material properties
• Fill volume and geometry

Proper analysis and execution are essential to ensure long-term stability and safety.