Taylor & Francis, 2008. 236 p. — ISBN10: 0–415–41953–0The ocean as a frontier for colonization has a longevity that stems from mankind's long-standing attraction to the ocean. Covering 70% of the Earth, the ocean provides a means to alleviate demands on coastal land pressure; land scarcity; avail renewable energy sources and new materials; increase food production and even to store carbon dioxide in order to mitigate global warming. As close to 50% of the industrialized world now lives within a kilometer of the coast, the demand on land resources and space is beginning to approach a critical stage as the population of the world continues to expand at an alarming rate. There is need for a sustainable and environmentally friently development. Technological innovations that promote stewardship of the Earth's resources, especially the ocean, are vital for mankind's survival in the next millennium. One of these environmentally friendly innovations to arise in recent times is the concept of Very Large Floating Structures (VLFS) - a technology that allows the creation of artificial land from the sea without destroying marine habitats, polluting coastal waters, and altering tidal and natural current flow.ContentsColonization of the ocean and VLFS technology
Wave phenomenon and properties
Hydroelastic analysis of VLFS
Structural analysis and design of VLFS
Analysis and design of station-keeping systems
Analysis and design of breakwaters
Model experiments for VLFS
Maintenance and anti-corrosion systems
Research and development of VLFS
