For the Azores Ocean oceanographic research vessel currently under construction for the Autonomous Region of the Azores, we developed a fully equipped sampling onboard research laboratory within a standard 20-foot High Cube marine shipping container. The vessel is being implemented under Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR – Plano de Recuperação e Resiliência), financed by the European Union through the NextGenerationEU programme.
About the Azores Ocean Research Vessel
Azores Ocean is an approximately 46-meter-long, 10.5-meter-wide diesel-electric research vessel with an expected endurance of up to 15 days at sea. The vessel will accommodate dry and wet laboratories, scientific data acquisition systems, educational spaces, and dedicated research work areas. Its primary mission is to support research activities in the central Atlantic region, with a focus on marine biology, deep-sea mapping, biotechnological sampling, and long-term marine ecosystem monitoring. The project aims to strengthen the marine research infrastructure of the Azores and enhance the region’s international scientific presence.
Design Objective and Laboratory Container Conversion
Within this framework, the objective was to create a laboratory infrastructure fully integrable into the vessel’s systems and capable of reliable operation under marine conditions.
The starting point was a standard 20’ HC marine shipping container, which underwent a complete internal conversion.
Wall and ceiling linings were manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, selected for its high corrosion resistance in saline and humid environments, while also meeting laboratory hygiene requirements.
The objective was to establish a durable, easy-to-clean interior suitable for long-term, intensive use.
Thermal Insulation with Purman® Technology
Thermal insulation was implemented using our own patented Purman® recycled insulation boards. These PIR foam-based insulation panels are produced by reclaiming and reprocessing manufacturing waste generated at our facility during door and sandwich panel production.
The resulting Purman® PIR insulation materials provide excellent thermal performance while ensuring high mechanical stability under demanding conditions. In dynamically loaded applications such as marine environments, dimensional stability and structural integrity are critical.
Due to their material structure, these foams also exhibit favorable acoustic insulation and vibration-damping properties, which are particularly relevant in environments exposed to continuous marine vibration.
Their semi-closed cell structure ensures balanced moisture behavior, allowing controlled vapor diffusion within the construction. Their mechanical and fire-performance characteristics make the material suitable for technically demanding and specialized applications.
With this solution, we not only met the technical requirements of the project but also significantly reduced the carbon footprint associated with the applied materials. The Purman® technology contributes to the implementation of circular economy principles, as PIR foam previously treated as waste is transformed into a valuable, long-life construction product.
Climate Control and Environmental Stability
Internal climate stability is ensured by an advanced inverter-based HVAC system. The system provides both cooling and heating functions and includes humidity control capability. Due to the high relative humidity and temperature fluctuations typical in marine environments, precise environmental control is essential for protecting measuring instruments and ensuring proper sample handling.
Marine Doors and Weather Protection
The onboard research laboratory container is equipped with water spray-resistant, high-tightness marine doors, ensuring adequate sealing and protection against sea spray during deck installation, even under adverse weather conditions.
Power Supply Stability
In addition to the vessel’s standard electrical connection points, a stabilized power supply system was implemented. This ensures the safe and reliable operation of sensitive laboratory and IT equipment and reduces risks associated with onboard electrical fluctuations.
Vessel Utility and Data Integration
The research laboratory container has been fully integrated into the vessel’s infrastructure. Data transmission and telecommunication interfaces were installed, allowing direct connection to the ship’s onboard network and internet system. Seawater supply, as well as hot and cold freshwater connections, were implemented together with wastewater drainage, all coordinated with the vessel’s utility systems.
High-Tech Research Laboratory Container Designed by Kleanlabs
The project therefore represents a comprehensive solution. It contributes to future scientific work and the development of marine research infrastructure while simultaneously reducing environmental impact through the application of recycled materials and innovative technology. The onboard research laboratory container is not only a functional engineering solution but also a sustainability-driven development.
