Division of Information Technology, Engineering and the Environment
School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering
School of Advanced Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering
Thesis Abstract
Pipelines are the most favoured mode of transportation and distribution of large quantities of valuable gases and fluids in the contemporary society. They provide cost- effective, highly reliable and environmental-friendly solutions for bringing life necessities to the communities. Pipeline networks are exposed to different forms of threats which affect their structural health, therefore, the deterioration and breakdown of these valuable assets are inevitable. Cracking mechanisms, especially stress corrosion cracking (SCC), are one of the most insidious categories of pipeline defects which need special consideration in pipeline inspection and monitoring programs. These cracks are primarily small at the beginning and tend to coalesce resulting in leaks or ruptures on the pipe surface.
The number of pipeline accidents over the past several years show that the current integrity monitoring methods need considerable improvements for more timely and accurate diagnosis of these degradation mechanisms. As a solution, this research project seeks to develop an innovative pipeline integrity monitoring system for continual monitoring and early detection of cracks and SCC in pipeline networks before they end to serious hazards. This will form a part of an extensive proactive strategy addressing the reliability of pipeline network systems.
To address the detection of microcracks at their initiation stage, it is intended to move from commercially available solid sensors to micro and nano scale distributed arrays of sensing elements. Nanomaterials such as Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) have recently found numerous sensory applications due to their excellent properties. In this research, the modelling, design and fabrication of thin-film nanomaterial-based sensors to capture the propagating signals generated at the onset of microcracks will be pursued.
The outcome will provide an efficient sensing mechanism for a new generation of structural integrity monitoring systems, and also contribute to the safer and more economic operation of various pipeline infrastructures.
