Programme Highlights

Submerged floating tunnels (SFTs) are an innovative yet untested concept in underwater transportation infrastructure. Despite being conceived over a century ago, no SFT has been constructed on an operational scale. The idea behind SFTs is to create tunnels that float at a predetermined depth, anchored to the seabed with cables or to pontoons at surface level taking advantage of Archimedes’ Law. This design allows them to remain suspended in the water column, providing a passage for vehicles. SFTs are particularly suited for long and deep straits where traditional tunnelling methods or bridges would be impractical or prohibitively expensive.

The structure of submerged floating tunnels is a combination of known technologies, integrating elements from bridge engineering, marine construction, and tunnel design. The anchoring system uses principles similar to those employed in floating bridges and offshore platforms, ensuring stability and resistance to environmental forces. The tunnel itself is constructed using techniques from traditional tunnel engineering, with post-tensioned reinforced materials to withstand underwater pressures. This hybrid approach leverages existing expertise and technologies, making the concept of SFTs both innovative and grounded in proven engineering practices.

However, the construction of SFTs also presents significant challenges. Ensuring water tightness, corrosion resistance, and durability in harsh underwater conditions is crucial. The dynamic nature of underwater environments requires thorough analysis to ensure that the tunnels remain stable and secure despite the forces exerted by currents, waves, and other environmental factors. Comprehensive safety and reliability analyses are essential to identify potential risks and failure mechanisms. Addressing these challenges through ongoing research and development is key to realizing the potential of submerged floating tunnels as a viable solution for long and deep underwater crossings.

Speakers

dr.ir. Marcel 't Hart

Leading Professional Structural Engineering at Haskoning and Tunnel Engineering Consultants

Marcel is Leading Professional Structural Engineering at Haskoning and Tunnel Engineering Consultants in the Netherlands. Since graduating at Delft University of Technology in 1999, he has worked on various immersed and bored tunnels, both nationally and internationally. Additionally, he is the chairman of the working group on submerged and floating tunnels at the International Tunnel Association. In recent years, he conducted research on the risks and reliability of floating tunnels, which has resulted in a successful defence of his dissertation last June which was titled: “Advancing probabilistic design of submerged floating tunnels”

Mr. Bang TAN (Moderator)

Engineering Manager at China Railway First Group / Adjunct/Guest Professor of South China University of Technology

As a worldwide-recognised Tunnel Professional especially in Europe, Middle East, Hong Kong and China, Mr Tan has 40 years experience of design, assessment, research development, construction management and commercial/contract issues. He has been involved in many high profile design projects and projects covering tunnels ( Immersed Tube, Drill and Blast, C&C and TBM), bridges (cable-stayed bridges, arches/cable supported, prestress segmental and composite bridges), commercial and industrial buildings, both highway and railway sectors. After worked as senior tunnel expert in HZMB Project as client’s consultant for this 6km long immersed tube tunnel project, Mr Tan has been involved for the infrastructure projects in Hong Kong. From 2013, Mr. Tan become an Adjunct/Guest Professor of South China University of Technology.

Language
English

Registration & Enquiries

The number of participants is limited to 300 and prior registration is required. The seminar is free of charge and application will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis with priority given to Registered Young Members. For registration, please complete the online application form at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_U48G5WaxQv2aSOyxASakoQ by 21 September 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by email. For enquiries, please contact Ir SH CHUNG by email: hkie.seminarsgroup@gmail.com.