Subsea Pipeline Route Selection Based on Sediment Geotechnics and Hydrodynamics: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Subsea pipeline route selection is a critical stage because corridor decisions determine geotechnical, hydrodynamic, construction, and operational risks. This systematic review aims to synthesize research developments on the integration of seabed sediment characteristics and hydrodynamic factors for pipeline route selection in shallow waters. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method was structured following PRISMA 2020 through the stages of identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and inclusion. The search was designed on Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, and Dimensions using combinations of keywords: submarine pipeline, route selection, geotechnical, hydrodynamic, pipe–soil interaction, on-bottom stability, soft clay, and multi-criteria decision analysis. Thematic synthesis indicates that undrained shear strength, embedment, bearing capacity, wave–current, and scour are the main parameters that interact in determining stability. Recent literature also shows a shift toward numerical modeling and site-based evaluation; however, studies integrating the spatial variability of geotechnics and hydrodynamic loads within a single route selection matrix remain limited. Therefore, an integrated multi-criteria evaluation framework is needed to compare route alternatives in a measurable manner in shallow tropical coastal waters.