Abstract: A rack for storing spent radioactive fuel is disclosed in which a set of cells, consisting of self-supporting metal tubes arranged in a staggered fashion with respect to each other, and joined to each other along their longitudinal edges, forms a rigid spatial structure. The tubular hole defined by each of four tubes has a larger cross-sectional area than said tubes and is provided with neutron-absorbing material. This material is independent of the tubes and may be removed and re-inserted in the tubular hole as often as necessary. Various tubular structures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A transport vessel especially used in connection with the transportation of liquid gases, e.g., natural gas, includes means for isolating storage tanks from the hull of the vessel to minimize the deformations to the tank from the hull. In this way, the thickness and hence weight of the tanks may be significantly reduced.

Abstract: A marine platform supports industrial installations. The platform comprises a barge and a lower keel on which the barge rests. The keel is positioned on the ocean floor. Intermediate friction elements are situated between the contact surfaces of the barge and the keel. Elastic elements are interconnected to the barge and the keel. These elastic elements oppose displacements between the barge and the keel. The displacements are controlled because the friction resulting from the intermediate friction elements impedes movements between the barge and the keel. These movements may be caused by external forces acting on the barge, such as waves, currents, and winds, or may be caused by the effects of acceleration on the keel induced by an earthquake of small magnitude. The intermediate friction elements have means for permitting displacements between the barge and the keel in the case of an earthquake of great magnitude.