The city of Tallinn carried out a pilot project utilizing muon tomography technology to non-destructively examine the structures and internal components of two municipal buildings – Vabaduse väljak 7 and Raekoja plats 12 – as part of the Test in Tallinn project.

The project employed GScani's muon scanner system, which uses muons – particles similar to electrons but 207 times heavier. Muons can penetrate various materials and provide data about the internal geometry and potential defects of large objects.

"With more accurate initial information, engineers can investigate situations more thoroughly and make more informed decisions in managing the city's assets," said project manager Sander Sein.

Measurements were conducted from January to February using two specially produced hodoscopes or detectors. The load-bearing structures, exterior walls, basements, roof spaces, and ventilation shafts of the buildings were surveyed. The project demonstrated that the technology functions in operational buildings and measurements can be performed without disrupting daily activities.

The project confirmed the potential of muon scanning for surveying existing buildings and enhancing municipal engineers' work. GScani plans to further develop the technology to integrate it into the city's building management processes.

Test in Tallinn_ GScan project results and final report (in Estonian)