Between 2012 and 2013, GCG played a key role in the international research effort focused on the behaviour and liquefaction potential of iron ore fines during maritime transport. Our work formed a core part of the investigations carried out by the Iron Ore Technical Working Group (TWG) — a body established to address growing concerns over the stability of iron ore cargoes under dynamic sea conditions.
GCG’s contributions included laboratory testing, material characterisation, and the development of interpretive frameworks to assess the moisture sensitivity and flow potential of iron ore fines. These findings were formally presented in the Iron Ore TWG Final Report (February 2013), which served as the technical foundation for the revised International Maritime Organization (IMO) schedules for:
- IRON ORE (Group C) – cargoes not liable to liquefy
- IRON ORE FINES (Group A) – cargoes that may liquefy under certain conditions
This reclassification marked a significant advancement in maritime safety, ensuring that iron ore cargoes are now subject to more rigorous testing and moisture control protocols prior to shipment. GCG’s involvement in this process reflects our commitment to applying geotechnical expertise to global safety standards and regulatory development.
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