Artificial ice island

Abstract

The development of the regions of the Far North is currently the most important task for the extraction of the mineral resources. However, when conducting offshore drilling in the Arctic seas, the selection of appropriate hydraulic structures is crucial. Factors such as severe natural and climatic conditions, remoteness from developed areas, and the presence of permafrost soils necessitate specific considerations. This paper examines the limitations and advantages of different offshore hydraulic structures for exploration and development drilling in the Arctic. It is concluded that artificial island structures, particularly ice islands, offer the most effective solution for year-round prospecting and exploratory drilling in shallow Arctic shelf zones. Ice islands provide increased resistance to ice loads, lower costs, and minimal environmental impact. However, their usage is restricted to the winter period, as they melt or collapse during the summer. Additionally, ice islands cannot be converted into production platforms if a commercial deposit is discovered. Understanding these limitations and advantages is crucial for successful offshore drilling operations in the challenging Arctic environment.