Geopoçíica,e engenhariamna região Antártica : a construção da nova Estação Antártica Comandante Ferraz

Abstract

This research is framed within the growing geopolitical and scientific interest of various nation-states in the Antarctic region, governed by the Antarctic Treaty and its Madrid Protocol, which establish the exclusively peaceful use of the continent and the preservation of its environment. The study adopts an interdisciplinary approach, combining geopolitics, civil engineering and applied sciences, to assess the importance of state presence and the challenges of establishing a safe and sustainable infrastructure in extreme polar environments. In this context, the research examines the technical and environmental factors that influence the construction in such inhospitable regions, using the Brazilian Navy’s leadership and experience in building the Comandante Ferraz Antarctic Station as a case study. Special emphasis is given on field investigations, use of prefabricated modules and technical cooperation with a Chinese construction company. The main findings underscore the complexity of the severe environmental conditions in the region and the commitment of the institutions involved in adapting the engineering design to field realities and overcoming challenges throughout the construction process. As an original contribution, the study proposes the development of laboratory equipment and methodologies for thermal and seismic simulation associated with the determination of admissible stresses in permanently frozen soils (permafrost), as well as the design of compact, sustainable and itinerant scientific stations, characterized by reduced costs and high operational adaptability. These proposals aim to expand the scope of scientific research in remote areas subject to permafrost and to strengthen Brazil’s capacity to maintain an active and sustainable presence in Antarctica, in alignment with international principles of cooperation, peace and environmental protection