Infrastructure

How can the condition of bridges, dams, or sewage treatment plants be monitored reliably and in real time? This question was the focus of the research project “ImaB-Edge – Intelligent, multimodal, and autonomous structural inspection using edge computing,” funded by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR). During the closing event on October 30, 2025, researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Nondestructive Testing IZFP, together with their project partners, presented the results of the joint project. Please read more...

At BAU 2025, the Fraunhofer Institute for Nondestructive Testing IZFP from Saarbrücken, Germany, will be presenting its latest infrastructure monitoring system “MAUS”. In view of the growing importance of the safety of critical infrastructure, especially bridges, continuous monitoring of sensitive areas is becoming increasingly important. This development underlines the need to implement innovative solutions to detect potential risks at an early stage. MAUS offers a comprehensive solution for permanently recording and analyzing condition data to ensure the safe operation of critical infrastructures. The flexible sensor platform will not only change the monitoring of existing critical infrastructures, but also set new standards for safety in the construction industry. Experts from Fraunhofer IZFP will showcase the sensor platform at BAU 2025 in Munich, taking place from January 13 to 17, 2025 (Messe München, Hall C2, Stand 528).  Please read more ...

We know it from car journeys, among other things: Again and again, you see damage to the fabric of bridge structures. If damage such as spalling concrete is visible, the actual problem has probably existed for many years. One of the most urgent causes of damage is the corrosion of reinforcing steel caused by water penetrating the structure. The risk of this leading to a loss of substance and load-bearing capacity is greatly increased. In order to detect the cause of the often invisible damage as early as possible, the SmartWire-Sensor competence center, founded by the Fraunhofer Institute for Nondestructive Testing IZFP and Klaus Faber AG, is pursuing the goal of developing sensors for the early detection of water ingress. The aim is to significantly strengthen sustainability and safety in critical infrastructure. Please read more...

The collapse of the Carola Bridge in Dresden clearly shows how important it is to assess the condition of buildings and critical infrastructure in advance using monitoring systems. This is not only essential for safety, early detection of damage can also mean cost savings. In the joint project “ImaB-Edge”, materials research and testing facilities are working together with hardware and software developers, construction companies and infrastructure operators to develop an electronic system for the permanent monitoring of the condition of infrastructure structures. Please read more ...