Focus on Corrosion: New Research Project at the Chair of Steel Structures and Composite Steel Structures
New Research Project Launched
On July 1, 2026, a new research project funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) was launched at the Chair of Steel Structures and Composite Steel Structures. In collaboration with the Chair of Mechanics with a Focus on Damage Monitoring (MSHM), an innovative method for the continuous condition monitoring of bolted joints is being developed.
Early Detection of Corrosion-Induced Damage
The goal of the project is to develop and validate a method for the early detection of corrosion damage relevant to failure using electromechanical impedance spectra (EMI) and guided waves. Building on the successful predecessor projects on EMI-based preload monitoring and crack detection, the developed methods are now being specifically extended to address corrosion-related damage. The long-term goal is to develop a “smart bolt” that enables automated and statistically validated condition monitoring even under changing environmental conditions.
The project will run until June 30, 2028, and is funded by the BMWK with €252,635 (total budget: €495,221).
