Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is an ultra-wideband imaging technique used for subsurface
exploration and monitoring. It is widely used for locating utility lines; monitoring pavement, runways, and walls
for soundness and thickness; search and rescue; archaeological exploration; forensic examinations; mining; ice sounding;
detecting unexploded land mines and bombs; agricultural applications; groundwater studies; permafrost, void, cave and tunnel detection;
location of sinkholes, karst, subsidence areas; and many other similar applications.
The beauty of GPR is that it is non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and can be used in a variety of ways --
there are hand-held units, downhole units, units that can be dragged behind vehicles, and even used from aircraft
and satellite. It has the highest resolution of any subsurface imaging method (sometimes with resolutions of
one centimeter), and is far safer than x-ray technology.
See below for some interesting links on this fascinating technology!
GPR is covered by the FCC Decision and Order covering UWB. For more information on this
rulemaking, see our UWB News page. Links below provide specific information
on how this rulemaking affects GPR, and other recent and topical information on this technology.
Penetradar
—one of the pioneers in the GPR industry, both in GPR manufacturing
and as a service provider
IDS Georadar Division —
An Italian manufacturer of GPR hardware, software, and systems.
Geomodel — an environmental
and geophysical consulting firm, Geomodel's site has some interesting info on how
GPR surveys are conducted and some neat pictures.
