Cement issue 2024/7 is dedicated to the Afsluitdijk, currently undergoing extensive renovation and reinforcement. This special issue features six articles, offering an overview of the project, a retrospective, and an in-depth look at several key components of this iconic infrastructure upgrade.
Spuimiddelen under construction at Den Oever (photo: Rijkswaterstaat/Levvel/Topview luchtfotografie)
Overview of all project components in the reinforcement of the Afsluitdijk.
Read the Dutch article [link]
Works in a historical perspective.
The Afsluitdijk, which separates the IJsselmeer from the Waddenzee, has protected us against the force of water for over 90 years. This feat of engineering has a long and impressive history.
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New pumping stations and sluices in the Afsluitdijk at Den Oever.
Both new sluices and pumping stations are being installed in the Afsluitdijk at Den Oever. This is necessary to ensure sufficient water discharge from the IJsselmeer to the Waddenzee in the coming decades, thereby preventing flooding in the areas surrounding the lake.
Read the Dutch article [link]
Riprap filled with colloidal concrete as seabed protection for the new discharge groups of the Afsluitdijk.
At the new discharge structures at Den Oever, seabed protection has been installed on the Waddenzee side. This protection is designed to withstand the high flow velocities that occur during daily discharge operations. The seabed protection consists of underwater concrete, riprap filled with colloidal concrete, and loose riprap.
Read the Dutch article [link]
Dike revetment with XblocPlus.
To protect the Afsluitdijk from higher waves, a heavier dike revetment was needed. A new type of dike block, XblocPlus, was used for this purpose. Compared to conventional solutions, this offers better stability against high waves and uses less concrete.
Read the Dutch article [link]
Passage combines fish migration, water defense, traffic infrastructure, and public experience.
The Vismigratierivier (Fish Migration River) in the Afsluitdijk is a solution to restore fish migration between the Waddenzee and the IJsselmeer. It is a groundbreaking development in hydraulic engineering that fulfills two seemingly contradictory functions: allowing fish to pass while also serving as a water barrier. The project integrates ecology, water management, infrastructure, and public space in one unique design.
Read the Dutch article [link]
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