ABSTRACT
The “Structures Moonshot” project, initiated by National Highways and led by Atkins, Jacobs, and supported by VSL, advances non-destructive testing (NDT) for highway structures, with a focus on post-tensioned bridges and half joints. Launched in late 2022 and continuing, its vision to revolutionise asset management for vulnerable bridges, enabling better and more efficient data collection, leading to self-monitoring and self-diagnosis for National Highways’ most critical structures.
The project comprises two phases; The first involves testing high Technology Readiness Level (TRL) NDT technologies on bridge sections from the dismantled A14 Huntingdon Viaduct. These are compared with the as-found physical conditions after hydro-demolition. The goal is to evaluate current NDT methodologies, identify areas for improvement, and enhance efficiencies in deployment.
The second phase centers on developing low TRL NDT technologies tailored for post-tensioned bridges. This includes the use of guided wave technology, with the aims of enabling direct tendon deterioration measurements without intrusive inspections.
This paper will focus on the first aspect, being the Huntingdon Viaduct trials. The low-TRL technology developments are documented in IABMAS Paper number 452.
