Morwick G360 Groundwater Research Institute’s Role in Groundbreaking Hydrogeological Characterization
A collaboration between GeoSonic Drilling, i3 Decommissioning Partners, the Morwick G360 Groundwater Research Institute (MG360), and Sellafield Ltd has achieved a critical milestone in the understanding of the complex subsurface environment beneath one of the UK’s most sensitive nuclear sites. This collaborative achievement was recognized at the UK Ground Engineering Awards 2025, where a project utilizing the G360 Multiport Sampling System (G360 MPS) was shortlisted in the Technical Excellence category and took the highly commended 2nd place, an impressive feat given the range of competition (more information on the entries can be found here).
GeoSonic and Sellafield implemented the installation of several G360MPS as part of investigations at the Sellafield Magnox Swarf Storage Silo (MSSS) which has ongoing issues due to leaks of radioactive liquor into the ground. The MSSS is a legacy facility that has long posed a challenge in understanding the movement of contaminants in a geologically complex and technically hazardous environment. State-of-the-science drilling technologies and advanced subsurface instrumentation (the G30MPS) were designed to operate in one of the world’s most logistically and radiologically demanding settings. MG360 played a critical role in the success of this effort, including provision of G360MPS components, technical support and training of GeoSonic drillers including a trial installation at the GeoSonic yard in Alloa, Scotland in August 2023, overseen by Steven Chapman of MG360 and attended by GeoSonic drillers along with Sellafield representatives, regulators and other consultants and stakeholders (see photos).
The recent investigations at Sellafield are helping provide the conceptual framework and meaningful understanding of groundwater flow and contaminant pathways, using data collected from the newly installed multi-level monitoring wells (G360 MPS) and high-resolution geological profiles. By combining cutting-edge geophysical interpretation with field-based hydrogeological insight, MG360 helped transform a previously opaque subsurface into a well-characterized hydrogeological system. This success at Sellafield sets a new benchmark for characterizing complex contaminated sites, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary collaboration, where engineering innovation, environmental science, and hydrogeological expertise intersect to deliver practical solutions for some of the world’s most challenging environmental legacies.
