Predictive maintenance of port infrastructure through digital technologies and robotics

Project leaders

The project is led by the Incheon Port Authority (South Korea), in collaboration with a national R&D consortium including public institutions, research centres such as KIOST and KICT, universities, and technology companies.

Project description

This innovation case focuses on the development of a smart maintenance solution for port infrastructure based on digital technologies, aimed at addressing the ageing of facilities and the risks associated with climate change and extreme events.

The approach introduces a shift from traditional models, moving from reactive maintenance based on manual inspections to a data-driven predictive maintenance model. The system integrates IoT sensor networks, marine robotics, and real-time data platforms to detect structural anomalies before failures occur.

The model combines two main technological approaches: on one hand, underwater robots equipped with multi-sensor systems to inspect submerged infrastructure such as quay walls; on the other hand, smart sensors embedded in structures to monitor parameters such as strain, displacement, and tilt. These data are integrated into digital platforms with 3D visualisation and digital twin environments, supporting operational decision-making.

The system has been validated in real environments with high levels of reliability, enabling more efficient maintenance planning, risk reduction, and improved preparedness for emergency situations.

In line with this innovation case, the Port Authority of Tarragona supports, as a facilitating agent, the Idea “Development of a high-resolution multi-parameter sensor for monitoring atmospheric corrosivity in port infrastructure”, submitted to the Ports 4.0 Ideas call 2025–2026. This Idea, led by the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at UPC Barcelona Tech, consists of a proof of concept for developing an innovative sensor to measure atmospheric corrosivity and optimise predictive maintenance management. It integrates six parameters simultaneously (electrical resistance, temperature, relative humidity, SO₂, pH and salinity) into a low-cost device. This technology will enable the deployment of dense monitoring networks in critical areas where it is currently not feasible due to budget constraints, with the aim of reducing structural risks and enabling more efficient maintenance management in port environments.

Project objectives

The objective of the project is to improve the safety, resilience, and sustainability of port infrastructure through the use of digital technologies and robotics to anticipate incidents and optimise maintenance interventions.

It also aims to promote the transition towards more efficient, data-driven management models, contributing to the digitalisation of the port sector and the adaptation of infrastructure to current climate and operational challenges.

Publication date

April 23, 2026

Related links

• World Ports Sustainability Program website
• Port of Incheon article