Archive — US — techcrunch
One startup’s paper-thin stainless steel could change how bridges are built
Allium Engineering has developed a new type of rebar covered with a thin layer of stainless steel to combat rust in concrete bridges, which can fail prematurely due to corroding steel. This innovation could enhance bridge longevity from 30 to 100 years while potentially reducing costs compared to traditional epoxy-coated rebar, addressing the urgent need for bridge repairs in the U.S.
Key points
- Concrete structures often fail due to rusty steel rebar, particularly bridges exposed to water and salt.
- One third of U.S. bridges need repair, costing nearly $400 billion over the next decade.
- Stainless steel rebar is expensive, used only for critical bridges.
- Allium proposes a solution: a thin stainless steel layer over regular rebar for corrosion resistance.
- This method extends bridge lifespan significantly and could reduce additional concrete use by 10%.
- The production process involves cladding, which is more efficient and scalable.
Why it matters
- Rust in concrete has long been an issue, prompting innovations in materials science.
- The rising costs of infrastructure repairs are pushing governments to explore cost-effective solutions.
- The trend towards sustainable materials aligns with the growing use of greener cements in construction.
Allium Engineering's innovation in stainless steel layered rebar offers a promising solution to the systemic issue of bridge corrosion, potentially transforming infrastructure repair and sustainability while aiming to lower costs.