Linear infrastructure and industry

Linear infrastructure is the economy's blood supply. Roads and rail move people and goods; utilities bring in essential services and remove waste. Deltares advises about the best ways to construct these vital networks and about how they can be kept in good shape in the long term. Applied research is the common factor here.

New technology

Ground levels in The Netherlands are falling. That represents a major problem for linear infrastructure. A traditional solution is backfilling with sand. Deltares concentrates on developing technologies to prevent settlement, like bacteria under rails that transform sand into sandstone, or using excess dredging sludge in foundations for new roads.

Unique facilities

Deltares engages in extensive research of its own. We have a range of unique facilities for the purpose, such as intake and outfall systems, a multi-purpose pipeline circuit and a geo-centrifuge. We study patterns in pipelines, but also the entire cycle such as the impact of cooling water on the environment. The research involves both scale tests and field studies.

Lifecycle as startingpoint

Our work starts in areas not covered by standards. As a knowledge institute, we view assignments differently, and not just on the technical side. We always look at the complete picture. Our approach is not based on construction costs but on the lowest total life cycle costs. Technology, engineering and maintenance are just as important as safety, risk management and sustainability.

Independent expertise

Our clients include government authorities, contractors, engineering firms and the owners of utilities. They come to Deltares for first and second opinions, research and overall quality management. In fact, every area where independence and expertise are crucial. Approximately 20 per cent of our turnover is located abroad.

Related software

• WANDA