Geotechnical asset management for climate change risk

Corker-Knott, Alexandra L (2021). Geotechnical asset management for climate change risk. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

Preview

CorkerKnott2021PhD.pdf
Text - Accepted Version
Available under License All rights reserved.
Download (7MB) | Preview

Abstract

Geotechnical asset management is a process and tool which encourages robust data management, optimised programming and evidenced based decision-making. Although asset management has come a long way since becoming a more accepted practice in the highways sector , and has fundamentally changed the way that assets are maintained, there are aspects that are still evolving as clarity on asset and network need improves and extends into future years. However, in gaining more sight into the future of asset networks, unforeseen risks begin to appear. These risks may not have been known or well understood at the time the asset network was constructed, or may not have been an issue when the asset was originally designed, yet, over the years the changing use of the asset network by users has led to new risks becoming apparent. One of these historically unknown risks is climate change. While knowledge about how climate change is expected to impact assets is improving, the understanding of the scale and scope of assets that will be affected by climate change is less well developed.

The tool presented in this research is a risk assessment, which evaluates the risk profile of the effects of climate change on a geotechnical asset as the result of the critical condition impact factors. This risk profile is completed by a scoring the impacting factors on a scorecard, for subsequent inclusion in the final risk score. The likelihood element of the risk assessment uses probability scores taken from the medium emission scenarios presented by the UKCIP 2018. The resultant risk score can then be utilised as a forward planning tool for maintenance, or increased monitoring, where appropriate.

Three case studies were assessed to show the practical application of the system. The results of the case studies show that the process works and produces results which aid the planning of maintenance to mitigate for climate change.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):