With the rise of environmental concerns, bubble curtains have become essential for safeguarding our oceans. Utilized in diverse settings, including offshore wind farms and waterway cleanup projects, bubble curtains provide a powerful shield for marine protection. Discover why Atlas Copco Specialty Rental is dedicated to advancing this innovative technology and setting the standard in marine conservation efforts.
Construction projects in marine environments generate significant underwater noise, which can be detrimental to marine life. Wind farms, for instance, involve driving large piles into the seabed, each weighing between 250 and 420 tons and measuring up to 86 meters in length. This process creates noise levels that exceed 160 dB(A) and travel at speeds up to 1500 m/s. Such intense sound levels, which are five times higher than in open air, can harm or even kill marine organisms—from mammals such as seals, dolphins, and whales to smaller marine species like fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.
Meet the underwater guardian
Bubble curtains are innovative underwater systems designed to protect marine life from the harmful effects of underwater noise and pollution. They work by releasing a continuous stream of air bubbles from perforated hoses placed on the seabed, encircling marine construction sites. These bubbles rise to the surface, forming a vertical barrier that disrupts the transmission of sound waves. As sound waves hit the bubbles, they slow down, break up, and lose energy, resulting in significantly reduced noise levels that are less harmful to marine life.
More than just a sound barrier
Bubble curtains provide invaluable benefits beyond noise mitigation. They act as nature's guardians, meticulously separating fresh and saltwater areas in nearshore landscapes, preserving ecological balance and biodiversity by maintaining distinct habitats for marine species.
They're also frontline defenders against pollution, aiding in the cleanup of oceans, rivers, and channels by effectively trapping pollutants like plastic waste, dredging sediment and oil contamination.
Moreover, with their bubbling magic, they contribute to improving water quality by enhancing oxygenation as rising bubbles uplift water from lower levels to the surface, fostering a healthier aquatic environment and promoting the overall well-being and sustainability of marine ecosystems.
Protecting our oceans, one bubble at a time
Atlas Copco's dedication to advancing bubble curtain technology is fueled by a deep commitment to marine conservation. Beyond noise mitigation, bubble curtains serve as essential tools in preserving ecological balance, containing pollution and improving water quality.
Curious about the impact of bubble curtains? Dive into our comprehensive whitepaper for all the essential insights.
