IL, a company specializing in advanced material technologies, announced on May 20 that it has filed a patent application for a high-reliability leak detection system based on special batteries. This technology is expected to be effectively utilized for detecting leaks in various underground infrastructure facilities, such as underground heating pipelines and sewage pipes, and is anticipated to contribute to the prevention of urban sinkhole accidents, which have been occurring frequently in recent times.
IL received a technology transfer from Professor Yoon Youngsoo’s research team at Gachon University for all-solid-state battery technology and special battery-based leak detection technology, and developed a customer-tailored solution with enhanced practicality and reliability. This patent application marks a concrete step toward the commercialization of this technology.
Professor Yoon’s research team developed and demonstrated a leak detection system using special batteries through a two-year service contract with Korea District Heating Corporation starting in 2020. Currently, practical application plans are being discussed with Korea District Heating Corporation, and IL is preparing to enter the market for this technology by leveraging its accumulated expertise in commercializing advanced technologies.
The newly filed leak detection technology overcomes the limitations of conventional metal wire-based resistance detection methods. Unlike existing approaches that require continuous power supply, IL’s patented technology utilizes a special battery with high durability as a sensor, enabling long-term storage even in a power-off standby state. When a leak occurs, contact with moisture activates an electrochemical reaction that generates power and transmits a signal. Since the battery itself serves as both the power source and the sensor in an integrated structure, maintenance is simplified and reliability is enhanced.
According to market research firm Global Information (GII), the global leak detection system market was valued at $2.72 billion (approximately KRW 3.8 trillion) last year and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.67%, reaching $3.8 billion (approximately KRW 5.3 trillion) by 2030.
An IL representative stated, "This technology can be effectively used not only for heating pipelines but also for sewage pipes, water supply pipes, and underground communication ducts to detect leaks and prevent accidents in aging infrastructure. In particular, as ground subsidence and sinkhole incidents caused by sewage pipe leaks are emerging as a social issue in urban areas, this technology is expected to serve as a solution for early detection and response."
The representative added, "We are currently conducting sample tests and prototype production, and we plan to accelerate demonstration and commercialization through collaboration with major public institutions and related companies. IL will continue to secure a technological edge in the sustainable urban safety infrastructure market based on this technology."
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