Sustainable cathodic protection solution for tunnels

Bouwconsortium BAAK (consisting of Ballast Nedam, DEME Group and HICL Infrastructure PLC) has completed the Blankenburg connection (A24), including the Maasdeltatunnel between the A15 near Rozenburg and the A20 near Vlaardingen. In collaboration with BAAK, MME Group has played a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of this impressive infrastructure.

A common issue in tunnels is corrosion on the clamp strips that hold the rubber profiles in place. The rubber profiles seal against groundwater and river water between tunnel elements (sections). Various methods have been tried at other tunnels to address this issue, but they have often proven ineffective or difficult to implement. Rainwater and brine from vehicles can lead to corrosion on these clamp strips. To address this issue, BAAK enlisted the expertise of MME Group.

Tailormade solution by MME

MME Group has developed a new cathodic protection system (ICCP) to address this challenge, providing the solution. This advanced system is specifically designed to tackle the unique challenges of the Maasdeltatunnel. It is equipped with a new type of anode and various new control panels to provide an effective corrosion solution. This is the first time an ICCP system has been implemented in a tunnel. The concept for this system was developed in close collaboration between BAAK and MME Group, where BAAK played a key role in defining the project challenges and requirements.

To ensure the effectiveness of the ICCP system, our in-house corrosion experts built a test basin with full-size clamp strips. This allowed us to thoroughly test and optimize the system.

Benefits of ICCP

The use of ICCP in the Maasdeltatunnel offers various advantages compared to traditional sacrificial anodes, such as:

  • Cost savings: Easy replacement of anodes and/or reference cells without tunnel closure.
  • Real-time insight: View live measured values for direct monitoring of the clamp strips.
  • Quick reporting: Automatic data registration for clear reports.
  • Sustainability: A sustainable solution with a lifespan of over 25 years.

Sustainable and efficient solution for corrosion

By enlisting MME Group, the Maasdeltatunnel can now be protected against corrosion in a sustainable and efficient manner, ensuring the tunnel's lifespan. To make this challenging issue a success, Project Coordinator Marnix Baars closely collaborated with MME Group's in-house corrosion experts and the customer.

We cannot wait to further implement this solution and work with our customers to build a sustainable future together.

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