One project Terzo Valico dei Giovi - Genova Junction

PROJECT SUMMARY

The Terzo Valico dei Giovi is one of the most significant railway infrastructure projects in Italy over the last few decades. Located in the Liguria region, it is an integral part of the wider Rhine-Alps European Corridor, which aims to improve connectivity between the north and south of Europe, extending from Rotterdam to Genoa. 

The project includes the renovation and expansion of some existing parts of the railway network, as well as the construction of new stations and support infrastructure. One of the most critical aspects of the Terzo Valico is the Genoa Node, a complex system of railway links designed to optimize the interconnection between different railway sections of the city and the port, vital for the region's economy and the entire country. 

The project has already generated significant positive impacts during construction, supporting employment with about 5,000 workers and Italian companies involved. The project integrates into the territory by reducing environmental impact, and once completed, it will contribute to reducing CO2 emissions by 55% compared to road transport, offering a more sustainable and efficient alternative for freight transport. 

PROJECT DETAILS 

SOCOTEC Italia has been involved in the Terzo Valico dei Giovi project since 2013, playing a significant role in the design phase. The supplementary investigations carried out by SOCOTEC aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the geological, geotechnical, geomechanically, and hydrogeological conditions of the site.

Our services are: 

• Continuous core drilling: to obtain soil samples along the route, which allow the analysis of the composition and physical materials properties. 

• In-situ tests and monitoring: to directly assess soil and rock’s characteristics on site. 

• Geophysical surveys: techniques such as MASW (Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves) were used for geotechnical characterization of the subsurface. 

Quality Control of Construction Materials 

During the construction phase, SOCOTEC played a crucial role in the quality control of the materials used. Such as: 

• Geotechnical investigations: to verify soil and rocks composition and properties. 

• Seismic tests in boreholes (DOWN HOLE) and permeability tests: to evaluate the soil's response to seismic stresses and its ability to transmit water. 

Structural and Geotechnical Monitoring 

A vital aspect of SOCOTEC Italia's contribution was the continuous monitoring during critical construction phases, including: 

• Topographic monitoring of external interferences: to identify and mitigate possible environmental impacts caused by construction. 

• Instrumental geotechnical/structural surface monitoring: essential to ensure structural integrity during tunnel excavation and construction operations. 

Preparation of Monitoring Systems 

SOCOTEC set up monitoring systems for some tunnels during excavation and lining activities, ensuring safety and structural stability during construction. 

Georadar Surveys 

Finally, georadar surveys were crucial in assessing the consistency state of the reinforced lining of tunnels, those technique allow the identification of any anomalies or defects without disturbing the structures. 

The role of SOCOTEC Italia in the Terzo Valico dei Giovi project was essential to ensure that every aspect of the construction was executed according to the highest standards of safety and quality. Through investigations, continuous monitoring, and detailed analysis, SOCOTEC is significantly contributing to the project's success, enhancing the safety and efficiency of the infrastructure.