The present study investigates the dry sliding wear behaviour of pure Zn, Zn–3Mg, and Zn–3Mg–0.5Y biodegradable alloys using mass loss measurements, friction torque monitoring on an Amsler tribometer, and optical profilometry of wear tracks. The microstructure of the Zn–Mg–Y alloy exhibited an α-Zn matrix comprising Zn–Mg intermetallic constituents and dispersed Y-rich phases. Tribological testing at 20 N and 30 N revealed a marked enhancement in wear resistance for Zn–3Mg in comparison to pure Zn, attributable to matrix strengthening by intermetallic phases. Despite the stabilising effect of Y on the friction response, there was no consistent reduction in wear volume under higher loads. Surface investigations have revealed a multifaceted wear mechanism, characterised by a combination of abrasion, oxide tribolayer formation, and localised adhesion. The measured wear rates were found to fall within the range documented in the available literature concerning biodegradable Zn-based alloys, thereby confirming the experimental validity of the findings. In summary, Zn–3Mg exhibited the optimal equilibrium between friction stability and wear resistance under the examined dry sliding conditions. However, further research in physiological environments is necessary to evaluate its biomedical applicability.

The current paper approaches the possibility of using the devices owned by the Company I work for, namely the G.P.R. (Ground penetrating Radar), U.A.V., thermal imaging camera, for the purpose of pre or identification of losses on pipelines and transportation of drinking water, identifying fraudulent consumers by determining possible unauthorized digging and monitoring the sewage and treatment plants. both on drinking water distribution and transportation pipes. Using different types of GPR’s such as low frequency, GPR with deep radar penetration up to 11 m depth, GPR with multiple antennas especially those with 40 or more, can help to create a better “image” of the underground utilities, as well as the presence of possible infiltrations, which can come either from damaged pipes or from the groundwater. These equipments like G.P.R., drones and thermal imaging camera, should not be perceived as universal replacement of all the so far existing devices, either in terms of loss identification or in terms of utilities identification, as they are complementary devices on certain loss detection segments.