A new scanning technique has been developed using inspiration from a unique ability of bats. By mimicking the bats’ ability to use different wavelengths of ultrasound to hunt and navigate, researchers at Lancaster University and Hybrid Instruments Ltd have engineered a novel scanning technique to detect corroding metals in oil and gas pipelines. Their research has been published in the journal Scientific Reports.
Their new system combines fast neutrons with gamma rays to detect corrosion, which is a major cause of pipeline leaks. Due to the vast distances of some of these pipeline systems, leaks continue to be a problem proving to be not only costly but dangerous to workers and the environment. Traditional methods of investigating corrosion in oil pipelines utilize ultrasonic or electromagnetic techniques. Unfortunately, they are limited in efficacy due to the underground nature of many pipelines and the presence of concrete and plastic insulating layers.
By utilizing both neutrons and gamma rays, researchers used their complementary characteristics to view both plastic and metals. Neutrons interact with low-density materials better, with fast neutrons enabling deeper penetration. Whereas gamma rays interact with metals better but are sometimes limited penetrating high density, thicker material. The two radiation types produce different signals which are then interpreted by the researcher’s novel device, a Mixed Field Analyser. Future applications are not just limited to pipeline corrosion but integrity inspection of a variety of structures.