Search the EPA Research Database
Project Search Result
Project Code [EBPPG/2022/118]
This information is correct as of today and is updated from time to time by the EPA to reflect changes in the management of the project. Please check back regularly for updates.
Project title
Evaluating the impact of climate change on transport geo-infrastructure using novel monitoring tools.
Primary Funding Agency
Irish Research Council
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Cork (UCC)
Project Abstract
Climate change is recognised worldwide as one of the earth�s biggest threats. There is no domain that is immune to the consequences of the changing climate and the transport infrastructure of Ireland, built prior to the recognition of climate change, is no exception. As seen in Aberdeenshire, Scotland in August 2020, heavy rainfall resulted in a landslide, subsequent derailment of a passenger train and death of many people. Luckily a similar tragedy has not happened in Ireland however with the current transport infrastructure, and its monitoring methods, it is only a matter of time before a similar tragedy occurs on our roads or railway systems. This project proposes the use of a three-tiered monitoring system to gather comprehensive information of geotechnical assets both in breadth and depth: 1) satellite imagery data will mark significant asset failure; 2) periodic drone inspection will detect the change of geotechnical assets with time at the ground surface; 3) wireless sensor network (WSN) will monitor the hydromechanical parameters of geotechnical assets (e.g., groundwater table, ground movement) in (quasi) real time. This information will be integrated into a decision support tool for the development of 3D models in order to optimise the investigation of the time-dependent geotechnical asset deterioration and provide early warnings for asset management and remediation. This information will be integrated into a decision support tool for the development of 3D models in order to optimise the investigation of the time-dependent geotechnical asset deterioration and provide early warnings for asset management and remediation. This study has the potential to revolutionise the current transport infrastructure in Ireland as well as fighting the consequences of climate change whilst also preventing the loss of lives.
Grant Approved
�110,000.00
Research Theme
Ireland's Future Climate, its Impacts, and Adaptation Options
Initial Projected Completion Date
31/08/2026