Prof Brilakis and the future of pothole repair

Prof Brilakis and the future of pothole repair

Working with the Greater Cambridge Partnership, Professor Ioannis Brilakis (Laing O'Rourke Professor of Civil and Information Engineering at University of Cambridge) is introducing AI and advanced scanning techniques to predict and prevent road damage before it evolves into dangerous potholes. The project includes creating a “digital twin” of Cambridge’s roads—a comprehensive, AI-analysed map that identifies and categorises road defects such as cracks, rutting, and shoving. The goal is to monitor and maintain road conditions proactively, utilising data from sensor-equipped vehicles to continuously update the map and pinpoint emerging problems.

Key Innovations:

• AI-Powered Road Analysis: Cambridge is becoming the first city in the UK to have its roads scanned and analysed by AI that can predict where potholes are likely to appear.

• Proactive Repairs: The aim is to use these insights to fix minor cracks and defects before they evolve into hazardous potholes—saving time, money, and lives.

• Self-Repairing Roads: Research is also underway to develop materials that can "heal" themselves, further reducing the need for extensive repairs.