China State Construction to build pre-cast concrete helipad in Antarctica

The 1,020 sq m helipad will be constructed out of more than 400 pre-cast concrete panels manufactured from high-strength concrete developed by CSCEC.

Designed to withstand the freezing temperatures of the region, CSCEC claimed that the pre-cast panels demonstrated better overall stiffness, crack resistance, and durability than conventional panels.

It added, “The prefabricated helipad, characterized by fast construction, minimal material turnover, and a high degree of mechanization, is better suited to the construction requirements of the station.”

Containers holding the pre-cast concrete panels ahead of their journey to Antarctica (Image: CSCEC)

These 400-plus panels have already been transported to Antarctica in containers.

Once the helipad is complete, it will facilitate the transportation of supplies and scientific research equipment for various research stations on the Antarctic.

Separately, China has already completed the main building of a scientific hub on the coast of the Ross Sea. The whole station is expected to take two months to complete and will house 84 internal modules, with 16 for winter accommodation and 26 for summer.

China has already built four other Antarctic research stations, two serving as all-year stations and two as summer stations. The newest station with be a third all-year facility in the region.