What is GPR? GPR is ground penetrating radar and is a technique that uses radio waves to map features and structures buried in the ground or other man-made structures. This allows for the detection of these structures without any need to uncover them.

Ground penetrating radar uses radio waves in the frequencies of 1 to 1000 MHz frequency. A pulse is emitted into the ground or structure being surveyed and the hidden objects reflect them as echoes which are then recorded. The amount of time that it takes for the echo is an indication of the depth of the object that has caused this reflection of waves. The equipment used in GPR scanning is state of the art and can produce both two and three-dimensional images that are then evaluated by experts.

What is GPR and what can it do? GPR is a radar device that can be used to detect leaks in underground structures. It can help in the detection of the thicknesses of asphalt and concrete and serves as a non-destructive method of testing for quality assurance. Arborists use it to find the extent of roots of mature and old trees as well as map their reach. It can be used to indicate the presence of underground cables, pipes, and other utilities. It can be used to judge the quality of concrete to detect cavities and other disturbed areas like honeycombs, which greatly affect the structural strength of concrete structures. It can help in detecting the presence of underground structures like sewer lines or septic tanks. It has been used to detect unmarked grave sites.

Whenever any construction project is undertaken engineers need to know whether there are any underground utilities or other structures are existing, before they start excavating for foundations and other work. This problem is quite acute in built-up areas where a vacant site is surrounded by other properties. GPR has also been used by archaeologists to find old ruins without having to do any digging. This helps them to detect any existing structures, locate them accurately, and only then go in for detailed excavation to expose the archaeologic find.

GPR has also been used for restoring cemeteries, conducting environmental drilling operations and even for restoration work in homes, where it is necessary to know the location of buried pipes, rebar in concrete and other things that can affect the work.

Conducting such GPR surveys on a construction site can help to avoid the risk of running into problems with structures or utilities that are under the ground and not clearly located on maps. It helps to gather critical information on buried utilities, voids, and underground leaks. This helps to ensure the safety of construction workers and greatly reduce the liabilities of the company carrying out the work.

Ground penetrating radar is a technique that does not emit any harmful radiation as X rays do. It is a non-destructive method that does not require digging any trenches and helps to keep private structures and public areas intact. It can detect non-metallic objects easily.