TNO Develops New Method to Monitor Undersea Infrastructure
TNO has created an innovative method using inert glass fibers to monitor vibrations and sounds around undersea cables and pipelines, enhancing oceanic safety.
Enhancing Oceanic Safety
The method developed by TNO, a Dutch research institute, leverages inactive glass fibers, also known as dark fibers, to detect vibrations and sounds from underwater activities. These fibers, integrated into existing fiber optic cables, can monitor a wide range of activities, such as underwater earthquakes, marine life movements, and ship traffic. This technology aims to protect critical infrastructure from potential damages, intentional or otherwise, thereby ensuring the safety and integrity of undersea cables and pipelines.
Technological Mechanism
The working principle behind this innovation involves attaching a device at the ends of the fiber optic cables, which sends laser light through the glass fibers. The light’s interaction with the fibers is affected by vibrations, allowing the system to detect and localize these disturbances. An advanced algorithm then distinguishes between different types of sounds and vibrations, such as those caused by marine animals, ships, or even undersea earthquakes[1].
Historical Context and Motivation
The impetus for this development can be traced back to incidents such as the Nord Stream pipeline explosions two years ago. These explosions, which caused significant gas leaks from the Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines in the Baltic Sea, highlighted the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure to sabotage. Although the perpetrators remain unidentified, the incident spurred TNO to enhance their detection capabilities to prevent similar occurrences in the future[1].
Applications and Future Potential
Vincent Vandeweijer, a geologist and geophysicist at the Geological Survey of the Netherlands (GDN), part of TNO, stated that the new method has successfully detected ship movements near seabed infrastructure during tests[1]. This capability is particularly significant for the security of the North Sea, where numerous undersea cables and pipelines are vital for energy and communication. While the technology is still undergoing refinement, its potential applications extend beyond security, including environmental monitoring and marine research[1].
NATO’s Role and Broader Implications
The significance of securing undersea infrastructure has been underscored by NATO’s recent initiatives. In May 2024, NATO launched the Critical Undersea Infrastructure Network to enhance the security of undersea cables and pipelines. The network aims to improve information-sharing and situational awareness among member states, utilizing advanced technologies to detect and mitigate threats[2]. TNO’s innovation aligns with these efforts, showcasing the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding critical infrastructure.