Bauer builds deep diaphragm wall for Slovenian waste facility
Construction of Slovenia’s low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste (LILW) repository in Krško has taken a major step forward with the completion of a 65-metre-deep diaphragm wall shaft by Bauer Spezialtiefbau. The facility, classified as a project of national importance, is set to begin trial operations in 2028.
Slovenian’s Agency for Radioactive Waste Management (ARAO) appointed a consortium led by Riko of Ljubljana, working alongside Kolektor CPG of Nova Gorica, CGP of Novo Mesto, and Kostak of Krško, to deliver the project, with Bauer Spezialtiefbau responsible for constructing the circular diaphragm wall shaft, a critical part of the facility’s underground infrastructure.
6,500 square metres of diaphragm wall
The diaphragm wall shaft measures 32m in diameter, is 65m deep, and has a wall thickness of 1.5m. In total, and covers an area of 6,500 square metres. The diaphragm walls are constructed using reinforced concrete, poured into excavated trenches supported by bentonite slurry to prevent collapse before the concrete is placed. To complete this challenging task, Bauer deployed specialist foundation engineering equipment, including a BAUER MC 96 duty-cycle crane with a BC 48 trench cutter and an MC 64 with a hydraulic grab DHG/V.
Bauer also used advanced digital tools to ensure precision and efficiency. The BAUER Cutter Inclination System (CIS) was employed for accurate positioning of the diaphragm walls, while the Hydraulic Grab Inclination System (HGIS) provided continuous monitoring and control of the hydraulic grab.
Digital tools for quality and sustainability
To manage the complexity of the project, Bauer integrated digital process optimisation and lean management techniques as part of the BAUER Construction Process. This approach ensured detailed planning, monitoring, and control at all stages of construction, allowing for optimal resource use and adherence to high quality standards.
“With our technology and decades of expertise, we are setting standards for geotechnical precision,” said project manager Stefan Neidhart. “By combining tried-and-tested diaphragm wall equipment with advanced digital systems, we can meet strict accuracy requirements while ensuring a sustainable design.”
Work on the diaphragm walls began on 1 October 2024 and was successfully completed in December 2024.
“Thanks to our dedicated team and cutting-edge technologies, we have made a crucial contribution to this major project,” Neidhart added.
A strategic national project
The new repository is a key infrastructure project for Slovenia, providing a long-term solution for the safe disposal of radioactive waste. The facility will be located near the Krško Nuclear Power Plant, Slovenia’s only nuclear power station. Once operational, it will help the country manage radioactive waste efficiently and securely.
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