We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: ground penetrating radar (GPR) is amazing technology! It has been a game-changer for locating buried utilities of just about all types, as well as embedded hazards in concrete. We use GPR on the vast majority of our projects with great results for our clients.
However, for all the things that GPR does very well, there are a few things that can inhibit the results of a GPR concrete scan. Read on to find out what they are and how the team at Enhanced Scanning approaches these challenges:
The Presence of Metallic Objects
Metallic objects embedded in the concrete can definitely affect the results of a GPR concrete scan. “But wait,” you might be thinking, “Isn’t one of the goals of GPR concrete scanning to find embedded metallic objects like rebar or pipes? Why would this be a problem?”
Yes, we are often looking for metallic objects in concrete such as rebar or pipes, but since metallic objects reflect back the radar signal, it makes it impossible to “see” what is underneath them. In the cases that require us to see beyond the initial metallic objects GPR encounters, we have additional tools we can bring in that will allow us to do so.
The Amount of Moisture in the Concrete
Concrete that is not fully cured can also present challenges in GPR concrete scanning. When too much moisture is present (in concrete or in soil), it is difficult for the GPR signal to pass through, and the depth of penetration of the signal can be limited to only a few inches.
If the client is unable to wait until the concrete is cured for us to complete a GPR scan, we typically employ the use of different types of scanning technologies, such as X-ray.
The Experience of the Technician
Another issue that can affect a GPR scan is the experience (or rather, the inexperience) of the person operating the equipment and interpreting the results.
Of course, conducting a thorough survey and using the right frequency antennae with the correct settings is very important, but proper interpretation of the results is just as crucial. Unlike an X-ray, which gives a fairly clear picture of what is embedded in a concrete slab or block wall, GPR scans are not as easy to read. The average person would have very little idea what they were looking at when it comes to GPR data. GPR scans should be interpreted by a technician with extensive training and field experience. At Enhanced Scanning, all of our GPR operators are highly trained and skilled in order to provide our clients with the most accurate results possible.
Contact us at Enhanced Scanning to schedule your concrete scanning service!
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