Project
The Relocatable Marine Biology Centre (RMBC), located on Holyhead Breakwater, is a mobile research facility designed to support dynamic marine conservation efforts. Traditional stations often struggle to adapt to shifting habitats and migratory patterns, but the RMBC provides a flexible, sustainable platform for real-time research. Equipped with advanced monitoring systems, it enables scientists to study endangered species in situ while minimizing environmental disruption. Constructed using modular components, the facility can be dismantled and relocated to predicted migratory locations around the UK. Its prefabricated design allows for removability while maintaining structural integrity in harsh marine environments, ensuring scientists have an adaptable workspace for long-term studies.
Research
The study examines the thermal efficiency of cladding for a modular marine biology facility (MSP) in the UK’s coastal and colder climates. It evaluates WPCs, CMCs, stone, timber, and aluminium using Sefaira simulations in St Ives, Holyhead, and Leverburgh. The base wall build-up has a U-value of 0.24. WPCs and CMCs offer superior insulation, reducing energy demand, while stone and timber prove less efficient. Aluminium, despite its high conductivity, is advantageous for its corrosion resistance and reflective properties. Its strategic use as a radiant barrier enhances thermal regulation without affecting the building’s base U-value.
