Imagine a smart robot that can scan a cracked tunnel or bridge and then '3D print' concrete directly onto the wall to fix it. It works like a high-tech painter that doesn't need a human to hold the nozzle in dangerous areas. The system uses a digital map to make sure the repair is perfectly shaped and uses a new concrete mix that is better for the planet.
Manual shotcreting is time-consuming, inaccurate, and puts workers in hazardous environments. There is a critical need for automation in tunnel and bridge repair to meet rising urban demand and safety standards.
Two mobile robots: the IRR for inspection, modeling, and metal 3D printing for reinforcement, and the SFR for autonomous concrete spraying and surface finishing.
If you are a contractor dealing with hazardous manual shotcreting in tunnels—this project developed two mobile manipulators (IRR and SFR) that automate modeling and concrete application. This removes workers from dangerous zones and increases accuracy. The system is validated across 4 diverse construction sites.
If you are a repair specialist dealing with posttensioned boxes of bridges—this project developed an Inspection-Reconnaissance robot (IRR) for high-precision modeling and metal additive manufacturing. This allows for faster, automated rebar reinforcement before spraying concrete.
If you are a restoration firm dealing with fire or earthquake damage to facades—this project developed a Shotcrete and Finishing robot (SFR) for autonomous concrete placement and surface finishing. This reduces material and water waste through a new mix-design.
Based on available project data, the specific commercial price of the robots is not mentioned; however, the project received an EU contribution of EUR 8,959,275 for development.
Yes, the system is designed for industrial construction sites, including tunnels, bridges, and building piles, and is being validated on 4 different real-world sites across Europe.
Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not provided, but the consortium includes 12 industry partners and 11 SMEs who are co-developing the technology.
The system integrates with BIM and CIM (Geotechnical models) and uses a real-time Digital Twin to guide the robots' movements and tasks.
The project period runs from 2022-06-01 to 2026-02-28, indicating that full validation and final results will be available by early 2026.
The project has a strong commercial orientation with a 60% industry ratio, comprising 12 industry partners and 11 SMEs. This high level of industrial involvement, combined with 4 universities and 2 research centers across 12 countries, suggests the technology is being built for immediate market adoption rather than pure academic study.
Contact the National Centre for Scientific Research and Technology (CERTH) in Greece.
Contact us to connect with the 12 industry partners for early adoption of the SFR and IRR robots.
