Introduction to America’s Aging Infrastructure
The American Road and Transportation Builders Association has reported that one in three bridges in the United States needs repair or replacement. This staggering statistic translates to over 200,000 bridges across the country that are in dire need of attention. A significant contributor to this issue is the rust accumulation on rebar, which causes the surrounding concrete to crack, making bridges more susceptible to collapse.
The Solution: Allium Engineering
Allium Engineering, founded by two MIT PhDs, is revolutionizing the industry with a groundbreaking technology that triples the lifetime of bridges and other structures. By applying a stainless steel cladding to rebar, the company makes it resilient to corrosion. This innovative approach eliminates corrosion, resulting in infrastructure that lasts longer, requires fewer repairs, and reduces carbon emissions. Allium’s technology seamlessly integrates into existing steelmaking processes, making it an attractive solution for rebuilding America’s infrastructure.
Extending the Lifetime of Bridges
The typical bridge deck in the U.S. lasts around 30 years on average. Allium’s technology enables bridge lifetimes of up to 100 years. This significant extension is crucial, given the massive backlog of infrastructure that needs to be replaced. The company’s founders, Steven Jepeal and Sam McAlpine, are dedicated to rebuilding America’s infrastructure in a way that makes it last. To achieve this, Allium adds a thin protective layer of stainless steel to traditional steel rebar, making it more resistant to corrosion.
The Technology Behind Allium’s Solution
Allium’s system is designed to integrate into existing steel mills, allowing them to produce stainless steel-clad rebar without disrupting their processes. The company has already used its technology to produce over 100,000 pounds of rebar, which has been utilized in construction projects across the U.S. The process involves adding a thin layer of stainless steel to the rebar before it undergoes the rolling process. This treated rebar is then used in construction, resulting in infrastructure that is more durable and long-lasting.
Toward a More Sustainable Future
Allium’s mission is to reduce emissions and improve infrastructure. The company is scaling its operations quickly to meet the needs of the industry. With its technology, Allium aims to make a significant impact on the construction industry, enabling the creation of infrastructure that lasts longer and requires fewer repairs. The company is also exploring the use of other cladding materials and composites, which could potentially be used in a variety of applications, including train tracks, steel beams, and pipes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Allium Engineering’s innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry by providing a solution to the corrosion problem that plagues America’s aging infrastructure. With its stainless steel-clad rebar, the company is enabling the creation of infrastructure that lasts longer, requires fewer repairs, and reduces carbon emissions. As the company continues to scale its operations and explore new applications for its technology, it is likely to make a significant impact on the industry, helping to rebuild America’s infrastructure in a way that makes it last for generations to come.