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Assessment of underground infrastructure using non-destructive testing methods

Pipe re-lining has become a cost-effective trenchless method for the rehabilitation of deterioration under ground infrastructure such as water and sewer distribution systems. The pulling of a video camera though ground infrastructure is the currently the most common method for accessing the  state of pipe deterioration. Often the quality of the video data is poor and difficult to interpret due to formation of residues and deposits on the inside to the pipe and the quality of video data. Video image data is currently the main method used for the development of a long-term pipe maintenance and repair programs. Research is underway at the University of Waterloo to investigate the development of a non-destructive testing tool that will: 1) access the state of pipe deterioration, 2) condition of soil surrounding the pipe, and 3) access the quality of pipe rehabilitation.

The research team for this project consists of Drs. Knight and Cascante, faculty members in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Waterloo, and MASc candidates. Graduate students and the purchase of specialized testing equipment are funded in part by NSERC.