R&D

At Sanacon, we believe innovation is the key to sustainable infrastructure. That’s why we continuously invest in research and development to refine our methods and create new technologies. This allows us to make accurate predictions, minimize risks, and offer customized solutions that extend the lifespan of structures. By sharing our knowledge through publications and partnerships, we remain at the forefront of our field and guarantee our clients the most advanced and reliable service.
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Sanacon: a bridge between science and practice

Spin-off from Ghent University

SANACON originated as a spin-off from Ghent University and carries academic depth and scientific rigor in its DNA. From this foundation, we embrace science as the foundation for everything we do: from analyzing existing structures to developing innovative, sustainable solutions for the construction industry. We strongly believe in the power of research to solve complex problems in practice and see it as our mission to make science tangible and applicable on-site.

Knowledge sharing as the engine of our growth

An active contribution to knowledge development and knowledge sharing within the construction sector is crucial. Therefore, SANACON is intensively involved in various R&D projects and maintains close collaborations with Ghent University, the University of Antwerp, KU Leuven, Odisee, and ULB, among others. Through guest lectures, supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses, joint research initiatives, and substantive contributions to academic and professional networks, we continuously stay in touch with the latest insights into material behavior, sustainability, inspection techniques, and lifespan extension.

This synergy between science and practice allows us to continuously integrate new scientific and technical knowledge into our projects, thus sustainably optimizing the quality of existing structures. This not only enriches our own expertise but also actively contributes to the professionalization and innovation of the entire sector.

PUBLICATIONS

Our contributions to the state of the art knowledge

2025

  • Effect of chloride concentration on the performance of impressed current cathodic protection (ICCP) for reinforced concrete: experimental research versus numerical modeling

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  • Durable renovation of monumental heritage through impressive current cathodic protection – Case study: the Yser Tower

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  • Service life extension of concrete tunnels by means of impressed current cathodic protection – Case study: Throne Tunnel, Brussels

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  • Adhesive bond strength in manually applied concrete repairs: Practical insights and guidelines

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  • Practical approach to structural assessment of reinforcement in existing concrete structures affected by corrosion or fire

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  • Experimental study on the effectiveness of Electrochemical Chloride Extraction (ECE) for reinforced concrete

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2024

  • Effectiveness and Throwing Power of Hybrid Anode Cathodic Protection in Chloride Contaminated Reinforced Concrete

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  • Concrete Resistivity Revisited: Experience with Testing on Existing Structures

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  • Reinforced Concrete Demo-Wall Illustrating Service Life Extension Through Cathodic Protection

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2023

  • Influence of various parameters on the current distribution and protection degree of impressed current cathodic protection for reinforced concrete with TiMMO mesh anodes

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2022

  • Current distribution and throwing power of galvanic cathodic protection with discrete anodes in reinforced concrete beam or column elements

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  • Renovation of Leopold II tunnel (Belgium): Innovative approach in study and design of concrete repair and maintenance techniques

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  • Impressed current cathodic protection of reinforced concrete in ATEX zones – Case study: concrete slab in an industrial building

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  • An objective assessment strategy for industrial reinforced concrete structures – Case study

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2021

  • Throwing power and service life of galvanic cathodic protection with embedded discrete anodes for steel reinforcement in chloride contaminated concrete

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  • Resistivity of repair materials for concrete repair prior to the application of a cathodic protection system

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  • How does Sanacon ensure that research results are effectively applied in projects?

    We integrate R&D directly into our operational processes. New insights are tested in pilot projects, validated by our engineers, and then incorporated into our standard methods. Tools like DIMCOST , advanced data analysis, and drone-based inspection are translated into practical applications for customers as quickly as possible.

  • Can I, as a student, do my master’s thesis at Sanacon?

    Absolutely! Sanacon offers several interesting thesis topics each year. Feel free to contact us for more information.

  • What exactly does R&D at Sanacon entail?

    Our R&D department focuses on developing innovative methods to extend the lifespan of existing structures. This includes research into new inspection techniques, modeling degradation processes (such as carbonation and chlorides), and the development of digital workflows such as 3D reconstruction and probabilistic lifespan calculations.

  • Can a customer contribute to or participate in an R&D trajectory?

    Yes. Sanacon offers co-creative R&D programs where clients co-invest in innovation. This can range from joint research projects to customized developments, such as new monitoring techniques or specific predictive models for complex infrastructure. This way, we create solutions that perfectly match the client’s challenges.

We are happy to help you

Your structure deserves a future. Protection against deterioration, strengthening its load-bearing capacity, and extending its lifespan are crucial to prevent damage and high costs. Sanacon offers independent advice and innovative solutions to keep your structure sustainable and safe – today and for decades to come.
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