Design of pavements under extreme loads in challenging subsoil conditions in port areas – Case study of Szczecin and Świnoujście
Abstract
The rapid development of offshore wind energy and modern port logistics has created new challenges in the design of heavy-duty pavements subjected to extreme operational loads. This paper presents selected examples of pavement design and operational experience from the Ports of Szczecin and Świnoujście, one of the most important port complexes in the Baltic Sea region. Particular attention is given to offshore wind-related activities involving the storage, assembly, and transportation of large wind turbine components. The paper discusses the geotechnical conditions typical of the port area, including weak and organic soils, reclaimed land, and shallow groundwater conditions. Representative operational loads generated by cargo-handling equipment, RTG cranes, oversized cargo transportation systems, and offshore wind components are presented. Practical experience gained from the operation of existing port terminals is used to evaluate the performance of rigid concrete pavements and heavy-duty aggregate pavements. Selected pavement structures and ground improvement solutions are described. In addition, settlement analyses performed for an offshore wind installation terminal are presented. The results confirm that reliable pavement performance under extreme loading conditions requires detailed geotechnical investigation, appropriate ground improvement measures, and pavement solutions adapted to specific operational requirements.