TECTONIC is structured into seven Work Packages (WPs), each addressing a specific aspect of the project. Coordination began in February 2020, while research activities and field deployments started in 2022. Despite significant delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, all WP activities were successfully completed by November 2025.
WP1 assessed the state of the art of Underwater Cultural Heritage (UCH) research worldwide, with a focus on pilot sites in Italy, Greece, and Argentina, where partial field activities were conducted. All tasks were completed, providing a solid knowledge base for subsequent WPs. On-site activities improved understanding of site accessibility and cultural significance, supported preservation and management strategies, fostered innovative methodologies, and enabled the transfer of European best practices in diving and heritage management to Argentina.
WP2 developed an integrated framework for UCH risk assessment and mitigation under climate change. Key environmental stressors affecting material degradation (temperature, salinity, pH, oxygen, biodeterioration, erosion) were identified across pilot sites. Historical and future trends were analyzed using oceanographic data and climate models (ssp245 and ssp585), producing maps highlighting increasing risks related to corrosion, instability, and biological decay. Despite the absence of some planned field experiments, the WP delivered a machine learning and generative AI–based decision-support system using a hybrid cloud–edge architecture to support proactive conservation management.
WP3 mainly involved laboratory activities at SYNPO, supported by UNICAL. Controlled tank experiments simulated marine environments to assess material durability and protection strategies. A standardized protocol ensured reproducibility and reliability, enabling antifouling product testing and the development of a protocol for a patentable antifouling agent to protect underwater assets.
WP4, led by UNICAL and 3DR, focused on pilot site deployment, monitoring, and management. Partners contributed through secondments and training, promoting knowledge exchange. Pilot interventions demonstrated effective preservation strategies and validated innovative technologies for underwater documentation, 3D reconstruction, and accessibility. Advanced imaging, remote sensing, and 3D modeling enabled accurate digital reconstruction and virtual access, establishing best practices and enhancing public engagement.
WP5 addressed dissemination, training, and stakeholder engagement through secondments, seminars, workshops, and conference sessions for academic and non-academic audiences. Key partners organized dedicated events, while 3DR and UNICAL managed communication via the project website and social media. USAL organized the annual DCAI conference with a dedicated TECTONIC session and related publications, significantly increasing project visibility.
WP6, coordinated by UNICAL, ensured effective project management through a kick-off meeting in February 2020, an online mid-term review in June 2023, a Consortium Agreement, continuous communication with the European Commission, regular online meetings, and dissemination of results at the DCAI Conference 2025.
WP7 addressed ethical aspects of the project. All ethical requirements were met, with no specific approvals required, and ethical compliance was continuously monitored.
In conclusion, despite pandemic-related delays, TECTONIC successfully achieved its objectives across all WPs, strengthening international collaboration, capacity building, and delivering research outputs and technological solutions with long-term impact on the preservation, management, and accessibility of Underwater Cultural Heritage worldwide.
