On 18 March 2021, CERN announced the launch of Technology Impact Fund to bridge the gap between the technology developed for research at CERN and its potential applications to address societal challenges.

The first technology selected under the Fund is the Compact Precision Laser Inclinometer (CPLI), originally developed by CERN and the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research (JINR), Russia, to measure the ground movements around CERN’s ATLAS detector.

The applications of CERN technologies extend beyond high-energy physics to a vast range of areas such as aerospace, medical & biomedical, industry 4.0, cultural heritage, safety and towards a better planet. (Image: CERN)

This novel solution could serve as a lower-cost and more precise alternative to existing earthquake detection devices. Every year millions of lives are at risk of being devastated by earthquakes, disproportionately affecting already vulnerable communities. While existing seismic monitoring solutions rely on a network of expensive devices to provide early-warning information, the CPLI measures fluctuations of the local gravity field. Its high precision means it has potential also to provide early warning for other natural disasters, such as landslides and rapid glacial melt.

Practically, the CPLI will contribute to solving three of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by all United Nations Member States. In particular, the increase of safety of cities and communities (11 SDG), promoting the end of poverty (1 SDG), and combating climate change impacts (13 SDG).

Financial support provided via the CERN Technology Impact Fund will enable CERN technologies to be adapted for use in wider society, with a particular focus on potential contributions to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. The Fund will operate with support from CERN’s Knowledge Transfer group and the CERN & Society Foundation, which is actively seeking external donors.

Based on materials by CERN

For more information:

CERN Technology Impact Fund
Precision Laser Inclinometer

Patent for laser inclinometer for long-term recording of earth surface angles