A new scanning method inspired by the echolocation mechanism used by bats to navigate and hunt prey has been translated into a non-destructive method for detecting corrosion and defects in oil and gas pipelines.
The inspection technique relies on reflected signals from a combination of isolated fast-neutron and gamma radiation to pinpoint corrosion, similar to the way bats rely on reflections from different ultrasound wavelengths to maneuver. Unlike conventionally used ultrasonic or electromagnetic approaches, the new method is applicable to buried or heavily insulated pipelines. The biomimetic backscatter system uses a mixed field analyzer instrument developed by researchers to record signals emitted by a thin beam of neutrons and gamma rays directed at steel pipeline sections.
Laboratory tests conducted on steel samples of different thicknesses demonstrated the ability to measure thicknesses. Variations in backscatter data were indicative of the presence of these materials as well as of rust or corrosion.