Valorization of nondestructive testing and related materials characterization

The IOF mandate supports valorisation activities in non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring, technologies applied range from ultrasonics to optics. A focal point here is the exploitation of so-called percolation sensors. Technologies already implemented mainly target the detection of wetness in engineering structure in aeronautics and chemical industry to prevent "corrosion under isolation (CUI)". Further successful applications regard e.g. damage detection at surfaces or the detection of ice in the tanks by acoustics. The society benefits from this research because safe and affordable operation of infrastructures and industrial systems contributes to welfare and improved environmental standards. However, all research and valorisation activities can only be performed if an appropriate public funding climate is available. Therefore, corresponding activities were also initiated to support the diverse policy areas in Flanders and on European level.