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Everything About Ground Penetration Radar (GPR)

It can be described as a technology used to image the subsurface. As the name suggests, radar pulses are used to reflect the underground. Its history traces back to 1910 when the first system was built to locate buried objects. In the 70s, technology gained traction in the military, where it was widely used for research. Since then, several developments have taken place, resulting in the widespread commercial application of the system. Here is everything you need to know about the ground penetration radar system.

1. How it works

It is an undestructive way of deriving the profile of the subsurface. By producing images of the subsurface, you are able to identify the location and the depth of structures that are underground. The ground penetration radar system is made of antennas that relay high-frequency radio waves pulses. The system is rolled over the ground, where video screens record the signals.

2. Soil conductivity affects the transmission of the GPR

Several variables affect the transmission of pulses to a GPR. One of the variables is soil conductivity. Low conductivity soils include sand, granite, and dry soils. Signals travel much faster in these soils. High conductivity soils like soils with water and clay slow down the signals. These are the factors that affect the clarity of the images below.

3. The antenna frequency affects the quality of images transmitted

The level of frequency has a direct impact on the extent of depth that is transferred and the details that can be derived from the signals. For instance, if your antenna is of high frequency, only a short distance into the soil is penetrated. However, the images are clearer with the high frequency.

On the other hand, low-frequency antennae penetrated deeper, but the images are of lower resolution. This does not make the low-frequency antennas useless. They are particularly good for mapping out soil structures and geologies.

4. Professionals should operate GPR

Ground penetration radar is sophisticated equipment that should only be operated by skilled personnel. To get accurate records and effective investigation, you should hire an experienced geologist. Also, note that geologists have different experiences. Working with one that has had successful investigations with a similar subsurface.

Alternatively, you can get training on the same.

5. GPR technology is cost-effective

This technology significantly reduces the costs incurred while collecting subsurface data. There is a lot of risks involved in collecting subsurface information. Drilling can lead to accidents, which can cost your company a lot in compensation in case of an accident. It also reduces the time taken to complete a project, and more area is covered.

Technology has been integrated into many industries. One of the areas where it has proved to be very useful is in subsurface data collection. Ground penetration technology has made the process less destructive, safer, and more cost-effective. It has also ensured efficiency and accuracy in the results collected. With this information, you will better manage your subsurface projects.

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