Critical and aging infrastructure

In the U.S., some two million miles of aging and buried water distribution pipelines pose risks to public health due to leaks and hydraulic conditions. Globally, this is a problem in every place with piped water. In many cities, systems are woefully inadequate and poorly-documented.

We study the joint issues of aging infrastructure and performance of water utilities. Our faculty has expertise in pipelines, water utility management, and structural failures. One of the most promising advances is use of data technologies to create smart water systems.

Dr. Neil S. Grigg
Professor

A failed prestressed concrete cylinder pipe (top). These are normally in larger transmission lines, where failures can be catastrophic.

Tuberculation is a more insidious problem causing energy loss, contamination and eventual pipeline failure (bottom).