FINDIT (Finding Infrastructure with Non-Destructive Imaging Technologies)

Finding Infrastructure with Non-Destructive Imaging Technologies (FINDIT) is a collaborative project between RSK, Geomatrix, BT and the University of Birmingham (UoB) and will develop non-destructive geophysical methods to detect factors critical to the maintenance and development of subsurface infrastructure including telecoms, water and gas supply pipes. These factors include blockages, space limitations in ground congested with multiple services, and damage caused by ground collapse. Currently, geophysical sensors are used to detect the location of buried infrastructure, but no reliable method exists to detect these other critical aspects. FINDIT will address these challenges by using existing technologies in a novel way and developing new data processing approaches. If successful, this will provide the necessary tools to assess the condition of buried pipes and ducts and evaluate the capacity to install new buried infrastructure. This in turn will help maintain our buried assets, utilise any spare capacity and lead to more proactive asset management. Overall, this will reduce unplanned utility streetworks and support more cost effective maintenance, and make the roll-out of new buried infrasturcture critical to UK economic growth quicker and cheaper.