BRIDGE ASSESSMENTS

Bridge infrastructure is entering a critical phase. Across the UK alone, National Highways reports more than 20,000 structures on roads that must remain safe, operational and resilient, with over half of the country’s bridges expected to be more than 50 years old by 2030. As these assets age, many require detailed assessment to understand their construction, performance and areas of deterioration.

TRACE is able to assess complex bridge assets non-intrusively using technologies such as large-scale GPR, ultrasonic tomography and iCAMM™. These methods allow us to detect reinforcement arrangements, tendon ducts, voiding, delamination, corrosion and variations in construction, even where surface finishes remain in place. This provides a comprehensive understanding of a bridge’s condition without the disruption associated with intrusive work.

Where deterioration risks or structural uncertainties are identified, TRACE-SI undertakes targeted assessments including post-tension special inspection (PTSI), cover investigations, asphalt thickness investigations and general defect mapping. By integrating multiple technologies and datasets, we build a complete picture of the bridge’s performance, supporting informed decisions on maintenance, repair and rehabilitation.

Site works are efficient, non-intrusive and designed to capture large areas quickly. The resulting interpreted outputs offer dependable structural evidence, helping engineers plan targeted intrusive investigations, manage risk and maintain the long-term resilience of critical infrastructure.