A startup based in Massachusetts is introducing a promising solution to one of America’s most pressing infrastructure challenges: aging and deteriorating bridges. With nearly one in three bridges across the United States requiring repairs or full replacement, Allium Engineering has developed a new method to significantly extend their durability—potentially tripling their lifespan.
A Widespread Problem
The poor condition of bridges is not just a problem in Germany—it’s a serious concern in the United States as well. According to the American Road and Transportation Builders Association, over 200,000 bridges in the U.S. are either structurally deficient or in urgent need of repair. A major contributor to this crisis is corrosion. When the steel reinforcement inside concrete bridges begins to rust, it causes the surrounding concrete to crack and break apart, undermining the structural integrity over time.
A Simple Yet Powerful Innovation
Allium Engineering, founded by former MIT doctoral students Steven Jepeal and Sam McAlpine, has developed a straightforward yet highly effective solution. Their technology involves encasing traditional carbon steel reinforcement bars in a thin layer of stainless steel. This barrier protects the core steel from exposure to moisture and oxygen—the primary culprits behind corrosion.
“Our approach is designed to stop corrosion before it starts,” said Steven Jepeal. “Most bridge decks in the U.S. last around 30 years. With our technology, we’re aiming for a lifespan of at least 100 years.”
Seamless Integration with Existing Processes
One of the standout features of Allium’s solution is its compatibility with current construction practices. The stainless-steel-coated rebar can be seamlessly integrated into standard building processes without requiring specialized tools or methods. This makes it a cost-effective option for large-scale adoption.
So far, about 45 tons of the innovative rebar have been used in pilot projects. The results have been promising, showing the new material to be not only durable and corrosion-resistant, but also economical and practical for mass implementation.
A Game-Changer for U.S. Infrastructure
As the U.S. faces the immense task of overhauling its outdated infrastructure, solutions like the one developed by Allium Engineering could play a critical role. By preventing corrosion, extending structural lifespans, and reducing maintenance costs, this startup’s innovation offers a sustainable path forward for the country’s 200,000+ aging bridges.
With scalability at the heart of their design and growing interest from public and private infrastructure developers, Allium Engineering is positioning itself as a key player in the future of American bridge construction.