Table of Content
As we approach 2025, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) startups are proving that groundbreaking products and novel approaches can propel even the newest NDT companies into direct competition with industry giants.
This transformation is reshaping the future of NDT startups, with rising NDT innovators leveraging advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, IoT, and advanced imaging to redefine safety, precision, and efficiency in NDT inspection. The global demand for non-destructive testing is surging, fuelled by industries such as aerospace, energy, and infrastructure, prioritising asset integrity and regulatory compliance.
Emerging companies are pioneering scalable solutions from wireless ultrasonic sensors to robotic crawlers, addressing longstanding industry pain points. This evolution is not just technological, but cultural, as top 6 NDT companies and agile startups alike embrace partnerships and open innovation to stay ahead.
Top 6 NDT Startups Redefining Inspection Technologies in 2025
The NDT startups in 2025 have the opportunity to capture a significant market share, driven by their ability to deliver niche, high-value solutions. These rising NDT Innovators are disrupting traditional paradigms, with the innovative inspection technologies setting them apart, and the strategies enabling them to thrive in a sector once dominated by legacy players.
From AI-driven defect recognition to modular terahertz scanners, the future of NDT startups lies in their agility, creativity, and relentless focus on redefining what’s possible in non-destructive testing.
1. XXTOP 3D Technology
Specialising in research related to advanced 3D optical measurement technology, this company is based in Shenzen, with R&D centres in Xi’an and Michigan, USA. They conduct a production and online inspection of global assets owned by enterprises, research organisations, and academic organisations in fields spanning automobile, consumer electronics, aerospace, automobile manufacturing, heavy machinery, and biomedical engineering. Like many rising NDT innovators XXTOP is heavily involved in research and development of their technologies.
XXTOP 3D Technology's Products
1. The XTDIC:
This is a three-dimensional full-field strain measurement and analysis system that provides a full-field three-dimensional profile, displacement, deformation, morphology, amplitude, vibration, and strain results.
This no-contact device provides real-time strain calculation, ranging from mere millimetres to tens of metres. Its interface is versatile and can support microscopy, Thermal Imaging, and many other equipment interfaces.
2. XTOM-MATRIX:
This 3D Optical Scanning Measurement system uses a blue narrow wavelength projection technology, preventing ambient light pollution from interfering with the results. This results in quick NDT Inspections irrespective of the surface quality of the workpiece.
It monitors the environmental condition during an inspection and actively compensates for it, along with the calibration status, splicing accuracy, environment changes, and displacement changes. It boasts an inbuilt three-dimensional photogrammetry (XTDP) system that improves the accuracy of global measurement splicing position with an accuracy of ±0.015 mm/m. It is available in large and small format scanning solution options for inspections of varying proportions.
3. Tube Qualify:
This three-dimensional optical bending pipe measurement system is the sole online Inspection Equipment for no-contact bends with independent intellectual property rights in China. This accounts for the pipe fitting measurements, pipes, wires, and hoses, and its dedicated software collates the data and processes, controlling and analysing the process. It is capable of being fully automated, with applicability in aero engines, automobile engines, ships, and air conditioning pipe fitting inspection.
Their products and innovative inspection technologies include multiple three-dimensional optical measurement products, including three-dimensional contour inspection, three-dimensional strain deformation measurement, three-dimensional dynamic, and motion trajectory measurement, scientific research analysis instruments, and many more.
2. Aavrtti Technologies
Image Credit: Aavrtti Technologies
Based in Chennai, India, Aavrtti Technologies works on detection, NDT inspection, and mapping technologies for buried utilities and structures. Their robotics platform and industrial IOT solutions provide utility for various applications across industries. Their focus lies in microwave NDT segments used with robotic technologies.
Aavrtti Technologies Products
1. Radar for Utility Detection and Inspection (RUDI):
The RUDI can identify, locate, and examine underground utilities. It can operate at a depth of 4 to 5 metres and is customisable to meet customers' depth requirements. The RUDI can gather data and record GPS information along with its other benefits.
2. MT 100:
This is a portable, all-terrain, and all-weather detector that can locate electrical cables and pipes made of metal with its swift scanning prowess.
3. Ranger:
This is an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) that can carry a payload of up to 40 kg. It can be manoeuvred through various terrains for applications including inspection, reconnaissance, and digital twins.
4. Crawler:
Aavritti Technologies’ robotic crawler can scale structures made of metallic or non-metallic materials, glass, and concrete surfaces. It can perform Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of civil structures and can be customised for various payloads as per its intended application.
Among the many NDT startups in 2025, their growth, innovation, and progress will aid in the growth of the industry as a whole.
3. Lytid
Image Credit: Lytid
Based in Paris, France, Lytid focuses on advanced terahertz technologies that are meritorious for many industries. Their technologies are applicable within the NDT industry for quality inspections and to gauge the thickness of workpieces, They can also be used in medicine for non-invasive imaging and in the defence industry in the remote sensing of explosives and drugs.
Lytid was awarded the Prism Award at Photonics West in 2016 for their product TeraCascade,
Lytid's Products
1. TeraScan:
This is a modular 3-D Terahertz (THz) Scanner that can be fully automated and has a user-friendly mechanism. The advantages of THz combined with the Frequency Modulation Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar sensors enable 3D inspection and sensing. With a modular design, sensor auto-calibration simplified image acquisition, and enhanced data processing, Terascan poses itself as a viable inspection tool. Its add-on software Teravisio conducts advanced data processing for 3D visualisation. The user can have tailored post-processing by accessing the raw measurement data sets.
2. THz PTFE lenses:
These PTFE lenses can be employed in THz applications like beam and wavefront shaping, complex and lightweight optical assemblies, sensing systems, etc. Lytid also provides customisation of these optical components and provides lenses like HRFZ-SI with anti-reflection coating, Zeonex, TPX, etc.
Customisations can include geometrical customisations like aspherical, plano-convex, plano-convex with a central hole, bi-convex, sphere, hypo-hemisphere, bullet-lens, negative meniscus, cylindrical hyper-hemisphere, cylindrical plano-convex lenses, etc.
3. SIRIS (Short InfraRed Imaging System):
This scientific camera is based on InGaAs sensor technology that provides a high dynamic range and low readout noise. InGaAs technology uses indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs) to create image sensors for shortwave infrared (SWIR) imaging.
Their products also include laser sources (Quantum Cascade Lasers and Schottky diode multipliers), detectors (pyroelectric detectors), imaging systems, and non-destructive testing systems through radar sensors.
4. Lumafield
Image Credit: Lumafield
With their beginnings in industrial CT scanning, Lumafield has expanded into technologies like X-ray capture, computer vision analysis, and web-based collaboration.
Founded in 2019, this company’s goal is to constantly upgrade technologies, and eventually the NDT industry. One of the emerging NDT players, this company is using the experience and expertise of their team to aim to break the glass ceiling in NDT.
Lumafield's Products
1. Neptune:
This is an Industrial X-ray CT Scanner that can perform automated integrity analysis and detect defects like voids and inclusion without physical contact. This platform is scalable and can be used for R&D purposes as well as be incorporated into mass production. It is 6ft wide and has a touchscreen interface that has been simplified to eliminate the need for a dedicated technician.
This captures 2D X-ray images and generates detailed 3D CT Inspection data for assessment. It also permits real-time remote collaboration and automation for repetitive processing and analysis tasks.
2. Triton:
This system has expedited the CT scanning process with automated scanning and real-time decision-making. Its automated part-handling system allows it to be integrated into factory automation systems.
Like Neptune, it captures 2D X-ray images and generates 3D CT data. Lumafields industrial CT scanning systems have proven to inspect critical parts 8 times faster in operations, providing a considerable ROI to the customers.
3. Voyager:
This is an AI-powered 3D analysis software that can be used to view and inspect data from any 3D or volumetric scanner from the convenience of a web browser.
5. Pacific NDT
Image Credit: Pacific NDT
Established in 2015, this Seattle, WA company started by identifying the hesitation in the NDT markets to transition from Traditional Film Radiography to digital radiography. They are actively implementing Industry 4.0 concepts to help their clients’ overcome obstacles in implementing Digital Radiography within their processes.
Pacific NDT has innovated technologies like their proprietary image acquisition software PiX, Automatic Defect Recognition (ADR), and Dynamic PiX cloud to help the industry grow.
Pacific NDT's Products
1. PiX Pikena:
This compact, lightweight, and portable Digital Radiography machine can be used to inspect pipelines, and welds, to conduct thickness measurements, and to perform structural integrity assessments. It has a scanning resolution of 76 microns and a weight of 2.7 lbs without its Pelican case.
This can be used in confined spaces, harsh environments, and even Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) inspection as it is robust.
2. PiX 0506 NDT:
This is a solid-state Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) detector that provides dynamic imaging with a range of up to 72 dB. While also supporting programmable gain and read-out modes, this detector can be used in aerospace imaging, bond line corrosion detection (BLC), and microfocus inspection among many applications.
3. PiX RavenTM:
This is a wireless powerline X-ray inspection technology that can be used by utility companies and transmission corporations. This system simplifies the costly, complex, and often hazardous process of powerline X-ray inspection.
This system is protected by an IP68-rated protective armor (Rhino) with a carbon fiber frame that mounts on powerlines to inspect conductor sleeves. Its software is loaded on a rugged tablet that triggers the X-ray to capture the images.
Image Credit: Pacific NDT
6. Inductosense
Image Credit: Inductosense
Inductosense manufactures and designs Ultrasonic Testing Technologies for corrosion and erosion monitoring. Their WAND technology revolves around battery-free, wireless, and embeddable sensors. They also provide data solutions and work towards integrating their technology into manufacturing processes.
Formed in 2015, Inductosense has gained incredible momentum in the industry because of the WAND software and large-scale acceptance of its sensors. With their investment in Aramco Ventures in 2023, this UK venture is set to grow exponentially.
Inductosense's Products
1. WAND Sensors:
This is an ATEX Zone 0-rated ultrasonic sensor that can be permanently installed on pipework and vessel surfaces. These sensors are thin and battery-free and can be operated wirelessly with a WAND data collector.
Each sensor has automated data management and unique RFIDS that can be traced. These can be embedded underneath insulation, coatings, and composite repairs for monitoring.
2. WAND-HDC:
The WAND-HDC (Hand Data Collector) can be used to obtain wireless thickness readings from a WAND sensor in its proximity. This process is completed in under a second and provides the wall thickness, ultrasonic A-scan, and sensor RFID information. It is designed for ease of use in conducting Ultrasonic Thickness Testing without specialised training.
3. WAND-RDC:
This ATEX Zone 0-rated data collector is a battery-powered device designed to be used in conjunction with up to 8 WAND sensors. It is programmable and takes UTT data as per a pre-determined schedule. A long-range Bluetooth can be used to retrieve the data wirelessly.
These emerging NDT players are shaping the future of non-destructive testing for 2025 and beyond. As industries increasingly prioritise safety, efficiency, and precision, these innovative inspection technologies drive the NDT industry forward.
By embracing automation and data-driven solutions, these NDT startups are at the forefront of the Latest NDT Trends, redefining the landscape of non-destructive testing. As key NDT players, they are setting new standards and paving the way for the future of NDT startups in this rapidly evolving sector.
Key Takeaways
- Many startups are leveraging robotics and automation to enhance inspection accuracy and efficiency, especially in inaccessible or hazardous environments.
- Companies are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to analyse inspection data in real-time.
- Startups are increasingly adopting cutting-edge imaging technologies like 3D optical scanning, terahertz imaging, and industrial CT scanning, to provide more detailed and precise inspection results.
References
Lumafield. (n.d.). Customer Story: Eaton. Retrieved from Lumafield
Power Grid International. (n.d.). Startup spotlight: Pacific NDT’s portable X-ray inspection solution. Retrieved from Power Grid International
