Location: Cork Airport
Area size: 50,000m²
Product: Hydroseeding
Client: Colas
Project Background
Reconstruction of the main runway, the largest construction project to be undertaken at the Airport in almost 20 years, involved a 10 week full runway rebuild, during which time the airport was closed.
Challenge
As our works were at the tale end of the project prior to the airport reopening, the areas hydroseeded needed to withstand high jet blasts from the aircraft.
Seeding the areas exposed to high jet blasts from aircraft such as those near runways and taxiways presented unique and significant challenges due to the extreme environmental stresses in these zones.
Key challenges include;
Extreme Wind Shear and Air Velocity
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Jet blasts can exceed 100–150 mph, especially behind military or large commercial aircraft.
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This can physically dislodge seeds, blow away mulch or soil, and prevent seed-to-soil contact—which is critical for germination.
Low Soil Moisture Retention
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The heat and wind strip moisture from the soil surface.
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Seeds may dry out before they can germinate, and newly germinated plants may experience drought like conditions.
Erosion and Soil Displacement
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Jet blasts erode topsoil, reducing fertility and making it hard for roots to establish.
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The exposed soil can become compacted or crusted, further limiting water infiltration and root penetration.
- Compliance with erosion control and FOD (Foreign Object Debris) management is mandatory.
Solution
To overcome these challenges, we used a specialist high performance hydromulch that would offer the following
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Hold seeds firmly in place.
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Retain moisture.
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Protect from blast erosion.
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Support rapid vegetation establishment.
https://www.colas.co.uk/colas-news/cork-airport-runway-reconstruction-awarded-to-colas
