According to the report in 2024, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) of the 623,218 bridges in the United States are 49.1% (~ 305.005) in a fair state and 6.8% (~ 42,379) in poor condition. The report estimates that the repair of these bridges would cost around 191 billion US dollars.
This new development could treat one of the biggest headaches in infrastructure maintenance – logistics. At the moment, the repair of a corroded bridge section often includes hanging the area, an expensive process and a nightmare for commuters.
This service was carried out in a study on the feasibility of the 3D printing for the construction and maintenance of Highway infrastructures, part of a mass duty research program. The researchers showed the first use of the 3D print for cold spray to repair a steel bridge in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. The performance was published on June 20, 2025 for with News.
Here is a simplified description of the process:
- Accelerable fine particles made of steel powder with heated die gas
- Spray them to the damaged area
- Repetition of the process in layers to rebuild lost material and restore the structural strength
The researchers are optimistic about the potential of technology. The team plans to carry out further analyzes in the repaired section after the Great Barrington Bridge has been torn down as part of a planned replacement. The data collected provides crucial insights into the long -term durability and performance of the repairs of cold spray. If the results are as positive as expected, this method could become a standard tool for civil engineers to ensure that the bridges remain safe and functional in the coming decades.
The print pen from Scrip3D P1 3D (Curr. 34.99 USD at Amazon) offers an affordable way to experience and take part in additive production.
All my life I was always fascinated by technology and digital devices and even became addicted to it. I have always been amazed at the complexity of the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years, almost a year ago I lost myself in the miracle of smartphones and laptops that we have in our hands every day. I have developed a passion for new devices and technologies that go hand in hand with them, and at some point I wondered: “Why not enter the writing of tech articles?” It is useless to say that I have followed the idea – it is obvious. I am an open -minded person who uses an infinite amount of joy in researching and discovering new information. I am a “bookworm” of the Internet and digital devices. If I don't write, they will still find me on my devices, explore and I admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I learn quickly and quickly adapt to changes and I am always looking forward to new adventures.