A cutting-edge non-destructive testing (NDT) system using AI-powered muon tomography has earned top honours at the Digital Construction Awards 2025, winning the Product Innovation of the Year category, sponsored by Digital Construction North.
The breakthrough system was jointly developed by GScan, National Highways, and AtkinsRéalis, under the Structures Moonshot programme. It marks a significant advancement in structural health monitoring—bringing precision and visibility to internal bridge diagnostics that were previously unattainable with conventional methods.
“A truly cutting-edge technology that will transform the industry”: that’s how one judge described the AI-enabled muon tomography non-destructive testing system developed by GScan, National Highways and AtkinsRéalis.
Addressing a Critical Gap in Infrastructure NDT
Traditional NDT methods can penetrate just 40 cm into reinforced concrete, leaving large portions of infrastructure unexamined. As a result, asset managers often err on the side of caution, leading to unnecessary decommissioning of as much as 50% of bridge structures—costing millions in avoidable repairs and concrete waste.
The muon tomography system, known as muonFlux, uses naturally occurring cosmic-ray muons and AI to generate highly detailed, interactive 3D models of structural components—including internal ducting, post-tensioning systems, and degradation points—up to 10 metres deep with 1mm precision.
“This is a critically useful product that can make a huge difference. It’s interesting to see how muon tomography could potentially scale in application and adoption and revolutionise the monitoring and maintenance of bridges while growing across other asset classes,” noted another judge.
Field Testing and the Road Ahead
Between June 2024 and February 2025, the development team tested muonFlux on representative bridge structures, successfully mapping internal mechanics and deterioration signs within post-tensioning ducts—without destructive interventions.
Following its success in controlled environments, the next phase will involve live deployments across operational assets managed by National Highways and AtkinsRéalis. Plans are also underway to expand testing with ConnectPlus/ConnectPlus Services, targeting bridge structures along the M25 corridor and extending to tunnels and retaining walls.
With widespread implications for the future of infrastructure asset management, the system’s data-rich outputs will empower asset owners to make evidence-based decisions, improving safety outcomes while significantly reducing lifecycle costs.
Reference: https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/non-destructive-testing-of-bridges-with-muon-tomography/
