Geodetic monitoring of the Chernobyl NPP shelter: research, analysis and forecast of structural stability

Geodetic and Satellite Technologies for Engineering and Deformation Monitoring

Authors

First and Last Name Academic degree E-mail Affiliation
Dmytro Khainus Ph.D. dmitry.khainus [at] gmail.com State biotechnological university
Kharkiv, Ukraine
Dmytro Sopov Ph.D. odau.sopov [at] gmail.com Odesa State Agrarian University
Odesa, Ukraine
Nadiia Sopova No lnau.sopova [at] gmail.com State biotechnological university
Kharkiv, Ukraine
Armands Celms Sc.D. armands.celms [at] llu.lv Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
Jelgava, Latvia
Valentyna Derevianko No derevianko874 [at] gmail.com State Biotechnological University
Kharkiv, Ukraine

I and my co-authors (if any) authorize the use of the Paper in accordance with the Creative Commons CC BY license

First published on this website: 18.08.2025 - 09:56
Abstract 

The paper presents a detailed analysis of geodetic observations of settlements and deformations of the Shelter Structure at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (ChNPP). Conducted in July 2024 as part of the second cycle of comprehensive monitoring, the study aimed to obtain precise data on the condition and stability of structures, essential for ensuring safety and enabling the facility’s transformation into an environmentally secure system. Special attention was given to measurements of spatial and vertical displacements, which allow assessing structural conditions and potential risks to operational safety. The data were used to analyze the impact of detected changes on structural durability and environmental safety and to forecast further deformation trends. These forecasts support strategies for maintaining stability and minimizing environmental risks.

The primary goal was to acquire reliable data on the Shelter’s enclosure structures, focusing on deformation and settlement. Such data are crucial for monitoring displacement dynamics, evaluating stability, and predicting potential emergencies. This approach enables not only the prevention of structural failure but also the development of effective stabilization strategies during the Shelter’s transformation. The study’s results provide a clear assessment of risks associated with structural degradation and form the basis for informed decision-making regarding safe operation. They are essential for maintaining long-term stability, ensuring timely detection of threats, and preventing catastrophic scenarios. Overall, the findings offer critical insights for ensuring both structural integrity and environmental safety, supporting the ongoing transformation of the ChNPP Shelter into a secure and stable facility.

References 

Baran, P. I., Sushko, V. G., & Chornokin, V. Ya. (2006). Conceptual principles of organizing engineering-geodetic works during the construction and operation of the new safe confinement of the “Shelter” object at the Chernobyl NPP. Problems of Nuclear Power Plant and Chernobyl Safety, 5, 66–79. https://www.ispnpp.kiev.ua/wp-content/uploads/2017/2006_05/c66.pdf

 

SSE “Chornobyl NPP.” (2022, September). Technical report on geodetic observations of settling and deformations of the NPP ChNPP Shelter. №. 3 cycle.

 

Dvulit, P. D., Dvulit, Z. P., & Sidorov, I. S. (2019). Determination of deviations of vertical lines using trigonometric leveling and GNSS measurements. Geodesy, Cartography, and Aerophotography, 89, 12–19. https://doi.org/10.23939/istcgcap2019.01.012

 

Chen, F., Xu, H., Zhou, W., Zheng, W., Deng, Y., & Parcharidis, I. (2021). Three-dimensional deformation monitoring and simulations for the preventive conservation of architectural heritage: A case study of the Angkor Wat Temple. Cambodia. GIScience & Remote Sensing, 58(2), 217–234. https://doi.org/10.1080/15481603.2020.1871188

 

Smoliy, K. B. (2015). Analysis of modern geodetic and geotechnical methods for monitoring deformations of engineering structures. Modern Achievements in Geodesy Science and Production, 1(29), 87–89.

 

Mohylnyi, S., Khainus, D., Sopova, N., Sopov, D., & Makieiev, D. (2023, October 2–4). Use of geodesic methods and GIS technologies in monitoring poly protective forest strips. In International Conference of Young Professionals "GeoTerrace-2023". (pp. 1–5). Lviv, Ukraine. https://doi.org/10.3997/2214-4609.2023510074