MSc Assignment – Environmental effects on bubble curtain performance

Boskalis, a leading offshore contractor, is dedicated to sustainable and environmentally responsible operations in all its projects. Offshore construction activities like pile driving are crucial for developing infrastructure such as offshore wind farms and oil and gas platforms, but they generate significant underwater noise that can harm marine life. Marine organisms rely on sound for essential functions like communication, navigation, and foraging, and elevated noise levels can disrupt these behaviors, impacting marine ecosystems.

To address this challenge, Boskalis has implemented innovative noise mitigation techniques, such as bubble curtains. Bubble curtains are created by releasing compressed air through a perforated hose or pipe, forming a barrier of bubbles that scatter, reflect, and absorb sound waves, thereby reducing underwater noise. This MSc assignment aims to investigate the effects of variables like current velocity and water depth on the efficiency of bubble curtains in mitigating offshore piling noise. Leveraging Boskalis' extensive experience and commitment to sustainable offshore projects, the study will use both experimental and numerical approaches to gain a deeper understanding of the interaction between bubble curtains and environmental conditions.

Research Questions

To come to a better understanding of the effectiveness of bubble curtains in a variety of offshore conditions, the following research questions need to be investigated in more detail:

• How does water depth affect the efficiency of bubble curtains?
• What is the impact of current velocity on bubble curtain performance?
• What strategies can be implemented to manage the effects of deeper water and stronger currents?
• How do environmental conditions, based on field measurements, influence bubble curtain performance?
• Is a single high-flow curtain more effective than a double half-flow curtain?

We Offer

• You are currently enrolled in a Dutch university and completing your master in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, offshore engineering, or a related field;
• A proactive approach to integrate within the team and company. It is very important to have a drive for curiosity and learning;
• Affinity for fluid mechanics and numerical simulation; experience with software tools used in these areas is a plus;
• Independent, result-oriented, and analytical behavior, with strong problem-solving skills;
• A good command of written and spoken English.

About Boskalis

Working at Boskalis is about creating new horizons and sustainable solutions. In a world where population growth, increased global trade, demand for (new) energy, and climate change are driving forces, we challenge you to make your mark in finding innovative and relevant solutions for complex infrastructural and marine projects.

Within a vibrant company culture, you will be working as part of a diverse, international team of experts. We offer you the opportunity to realize your full personal potential and expand your professional career by creating new horizons. Together.

Interested?

• Warm welcome: You can count on a warm welcome so that you quickly feel at home at Boskalis.
• Salary and more: As a student, you will receive a student allowance. In addition, we offer a fun work environment with lots of challenges.
• A dynamic work environment: An internship where you can learn a lot from a leading company and where you will be part of a diverse team of experts.
• Young Boskalis: Are you younger than 36? Then join Young Boskalis! Monthly social and sporting activities ranging from pub quizzes, yoga, boot camps, and an annual sailboat race. Networking and knowledge sharing are also an important part of Young Boskalis.