Modern Marvels: Corrosion and Decomposition

As the US infrastructure begins to show the signs of serious wear, Modern Marvels examines the high cost of fighting corrosion and decomposition, and the steps being taken by the government to keep our bridges, railroad trestles, and sewage systems fully operational. Each year, billions of dollars from the national budget go to reinforcing the framework of our national landscape. But what is being done to ensure that our interior structures don't simply collapse? A visit to an innovative Missouri company reveals how corroded sewer drains can be repaired quickly and efficiently, and a trip to the General Motors Proving Grounds highlights the steps being taken to combat the caustic effects of road salt in snowy regions. As experts weigh in on the need to address infrastructure issues sooner rather than later, we discover how towering landfills are converted to methane gas and see what lessons our old friend the termite can teach us about making ethanol from agricultural refuse.