TEN European research institutes have collaborated on a project to develop flood resilient smart technologies and products.
The emphasis of the SMARTeST project has been on developing cost-effective measures that can be used by communities and individuals to protect homes. The long-term aim is to improve the route to market of technology by reducing deficiencies and obstacles, facilitating the design of more holistic defence systems and supporting implementation of the new EU flood risk management policy.
BRE scientist Stephen, who managed the EU-funded project, explained: “The events of recent days have shown that householders and businesses in flood risk areas too often rely on the use of sandbags when flood defences fail. Sandbags do not hold back water and become heavy or split when wet. We need the next generation of flood resilience technology now. By this I mean smart systems with sensor technology, automatic control, innovative materials and high levels of performance.”
Working with leading technology providers, consultants, the insurance industry, environment agencies and local authorities, the project has developed and tested new products and systems including automatic air brick covers, perimeter barriers and building sealants.
Testing has shown that high levels of performance can be achieved as long as products are thoroughly developed, tested and ultimately third-party certified.
