A groundbreaking research project led by the University of Glasgow is set to transform the way structural integrity is monitored in the UK’s ageing transport infrastructure. By harnessing cosmic rays and an advanced technique known as muography, the project aims to identify structural defects in bridges at an earlier stage, reducing repair costs, environmental impact, and disruption to transportation networks.
The project, spearheaded by Dr. David Mahon of the University of Glasgow’s School of Physics & Astronomy, has received £459,000 in funding from UK Research and Innovation’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). The research will focus on improving muon detector technology—a cutting-edge, non-destructive testing (NDT) technique that uses cosmic ray particles to create detailed 3D images of the interiors of structures.
Dr. Mahon explained the significance of the project, saying, “There are more than 74,000 road and rail bridges across the UK, most of which are made from reinforced concrete, and many of which were built between 50 and 60 years ago. That means they’re now getting close to the end of their intended lifespan, so it’s important that they are properly monitored to ensure that they can be repaired when necessary.
“Current inspection methods often require exposing steel substructure, which can lead to rust and further weakening when exposed to rain, so non-destructive testing methods which allows maintenance crews to see inside
“Muography is a technique that’s already proven its worth in the nuclear industry, and it seems ideally placed to enable non-destructive testing in transport infrastructure too. This grant from the STFC will enable us to build on our previous achievements and build new, more portable test kits that can identify fatigue or defects at a much earlier stage than is currently possible. Being aware of problems earlier, before they cause significant damage or disruption, could help bring the overall cost of repairs down.”
How Cosmic Rays Enable Non-Destructive Testing
Muography works by measuring particles called muons, which are generated when cosmic rays collide with Earth’s atmosphere. As muons pass through materials, they are deflected based on the density and composition of the structure. By analyzing the deflection patterns, researchers can create detailed images of internal structures—something not possible with traditional techniques like X-rays.
The project builds on Dr. Mahon’s earlier work, where similar muography technology developed with Lynkeos Technology Ltd, a University of Glasgow spinout, was used to map radioactive waste inside concrete-filled containers at UK nuclear power plants. Now, the team is developing smaller, faster, and more portable muon detectors that can operate in real-world conditions to assess bridges. Field trials will take place at multiple bridges in Glasgow in partnership with Transport Scotland.
Hazel McDonald, Chief Bridge Engineer at Transport Scotland, commented, “We’re proud to be supporting the University of Glasgow and Lynkeos Technology’s innovative development of cosmic-ray muography with field trials on our network of road bridges. Muography’s ability to look deeper into structures has the potential to transform structural integrity inspection, ensuring ageing public structures are safe and reducing travel disruption.”
A Sustainable Approach to Infrastructure Management
The application of muography offers a non-invasive, cost-effective alternative to traditional inspection methods. By identifying fatigue, cracks, or structural weaknesses earlier, the technology enables timely repairs and extends the lifespan of infrastructure. This approach aligns with sustainability goals, as it reduces the need for new construction—minimizing the carbon footprint associated with producing concrete and steel.
Dr. Mahon added, “Extending the lifespan of our built infrastructure through non-destructive testing could also help countries around the world achieve their net-zero goals. If we can help these structures stay in service for longer, we can reduce the need for replacement structures. Concrete and steel, which are still required to build most of our major infrastructure projects, are produced using carbon-emitting materials and processes, so keeping structures working safely for longer could help reduce the carbon footprint of our roads and bridges.”
The project represents a significant step forward in non-destructive testing for the transportation sector and highlights the potential of cosmic-ray technology to safeguard public infrastructure in the UK and beyond.
Reference: https://www.gla.ac.uk/news/headline_1133632_en.html
