Bridges are a vital part of our transportation networks, but as they age, they face a silent threat: corrosion. This damage comes from de-icing salts, atmospheric carbon dioxide, and water seeping through cracks, all of which can weaken the structure over time. The problem is that by the time visible signs appear, it's often too late—leading to costly repairs or even catastrophic failures. But what if there was a way to catch the corrosion early? Well, there has been for over 25 years. A method involving a wheel with an electrode measures the electrical potential of concrete, helping identify areas where rebar is beginning to corrode. However, this technique has limitations—manual operation makes it hard to reach difficult areas like bridge pillars or the undersides of large structures.
To address this challenge, a team from Switzerland’s Institute for Building Materials partnered with the Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems. Their mission was to create a robot capable of inspecting all parts of a bridge, especially those that are hard to access. They designed a versatile machine that could move on the ground, climb walls, and even traverse ceilings. The robot uses Vortex technology, with a propeller creating suction that allows it to stick to vertical surfaces. Wheels then help it move along the bridge, controlled remotely.
Originally called "Paraswift," this robot was developed four years ago, initially intended for use in entertainment, such as filming from unique angles. Now renamed "C2D2" (Climbing Corrosion Detective Device), it combines the electrode method with advanced mobility. An electrode is fixed underneath, while a pink ball with a camera sits on top, helping operators navigate and avoid obstacles. C2D2 has already successfully detected corrosion on several bridges in Switzerland, and the team plans to make it fully autonomous by mid-2015, with its own navigation system.
C2D2 isn't the only robot working against corrosion. Redzone Robotics has been inspecting sewer lines since 2013, while Rolls-Royce has used pipe-inspection robots for nuclear plants since 1991. Other systems can even coat pipes to prevent leaks. In Japan, HiBot has created robots to check high-voltage power lines for internal damage.
Corrosion is a growing global issue, and with infrastructure aging and repair budgets shrinking, the need for smart solutions is urgent. Technologies like C2D2 and HJ3’s carbon fiber systems offer hope, helping detect and repair damage before it becomes critical. By investing in these innovations, we can reduce costs and prevent disasters, one bridge at a time.
If you want to learn more about how HJ3’s carbon fiber systems can help protect your infrastructure and save money, contact us today.
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