If you are a plant operator dealing with the risk of explosions during maintenance — this project developed ATEX certified fasteners that eliminate the need for hot works. This allows for structural repairs without shutting down production or risking a blast.
Non-intrusive structural fasteners for safe infrastructure repair and life extension
Imagine needing to attach a heavy bracket to a wall without drilling holes or using a welding torch, which could cause a fire. This technology uses a super-strong glue and a special tool to bond fasteners directly to the surface. It's like a high-tech industrial sticker that is strong enough to hold up massive steel or concrete structures in dangerous environments.
What needed solving
Traditional structural fastening (welding, drilling) is intrusive and dangerous in explosive environments, often requiring expensive production shutdowns.
What was built
A range of surface-bonded fasteners (C-Claw) and a humidity-controlled installation tool (C-Hawk) with an ATEX certified version.
Who needs this
Who can put this to work
If you are a platform owner dealing with salt-water corrosion and structural wear — this project developed composite bonding solutions that work in harsh marine environments. It allows for faster repairs without damaging the existing hull or support structure.
If you are a renovation firm dealing with aging concrete or steel bridges — this project developed a non-intrusive fastening system that extends the life of the asset. This reduces the need for full demolition and lowers the carbon footprint of the project.
Quick answers
How does this affect operational costs?
The technology is designed to lower both capital and operational expenditures linked to structural asset integrity by removing the need for business interruption during installation.
What is the planned industrial scale for production?
The project aimed to prepare for an industrial scale-up with a volume target of 200,000 fasteners per year and 1,000 installation tools.
Is the technology protected by intellectual property?
Yes, the C-Claw technology is protected by a series of 5 patent families.
Can this be used in explosive environments?
Yes, the project specifically developed an ATEX certified version of the C-Hawk tool for safe use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
How does it integrate with existing materials?
Based on available project data, the team tested over 15 types of material with more than 30 adhesive references to ensure compatibility with steel and concrete.
Who built it
The project is led by a single French SME, COLD PAD, which maintains 100% industry representation. This lean structure suggests a highly focused commercial drive, moving from a proven niche (Nuclear/Marine) toward mass-market industrial scale-up.
Contact COLD PAD in France for licensing or procurement of C-Claw fasteners.
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact us to connect with COLD PAD for ATEX-certified fastening solutions.