New technology for monitoring of bedrock movement - beneficial for industry and society

Important results from the project

The project fulfilled the intended main objective: to verify that the instrument fulfills the potential end users´ needs and requirements. During the project, the sensor system was developed, tested, verified, and evaluated by the project stakeholders. A plan for the next step, an innovation project for field testing the system in SKB:s underground Hard Rock Laboratory, the Äspö laboratory, was developed in collaboration. The project contributed to furthering the commercialization and "productification" process for the technology/sensor system.

Expected long term effects

The project resulted in a more robust sensor system, with a higher technology maturity level. It has been customized to meet end user requirements from the nuclear, mining, and infrastructure industries. The probe was tested with good results in Acreo´s fiber laboratory and in a test rig designed and manufactured by the group. A plan, budget and application for financing was developed for a larger innovation project that will include field testing in the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory. Additional stakeholders confirmed their interest to participate in a reference group in the next project.

Approach and implementation

The project followed the specified WPs and timeline with a few changes. The delivery of technical specification and market analysis was delayed due to availability of the consultants and because information was gathered from additional end users to create a more complete documentation of requirements. The manufacturing of the test rig was done during the last two months, due to a longer design process, and to lower manufacturing costs. The planning of field tests was separated into a new WP to clarify SKB:s commitment. Extra meetings were added for some project partners for follow-up.