Nuclear techniques in planning and controlling dredging worksin São Marcos Bay, Maranhão-Brazil

Abstract

This paper introduces a nuclear gauge developed for "in situ" measurements of bottom sediments density in the state of Maranhão, in the northeast of Brazil. Measurements intended to plan and control maintenance dredging works, resulting in a very favorable reduction of annual dredged volumes and un improvement of port operational conditions. The same instrument was used in tests to evaluate loading operations of hopper dredgers, with valuable results in improving dredging efficency.