Using Ground Penetrating Radar to Locate Subsurface Voids below Pavements

Subsurface voids below pavements can cause increased deflection, reduce strength of the subgrade layer, and even result in the collapse of the pavement in extreme cases. Several nondestructive test (NDT) methods, including Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) method, have been used to detect subsurface voids during the past two decades. However, these studies mainly focused on detecting small voids close to the surface of the pavements. The results showed that GPR was more reliable in locating voids than other NDT methods. This paper summarizes the application of GPR in the urban central business district of Louisville. Kentucky. Acquisition, post processing, and interpretation of the data are discussed, presenting an example of a practical application of GPR in Urban Areas. Various GPR patterns signifying diverse subsurface feature, such as voids, pipes, and also trolley tracks are presented in this paper. The validity of the GPR results was verified in the field by excavating the suspected area. Limitations and recommendations are discussed.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/16762797
• Authors:
  • Zhao, Zhiyong
  • Mohsen, J P
• Publication Date: 2005-5

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: pp 63-71
• Serial:
  • International Journal of Pavements
  • Volume: 4
  • Issue Number: 1-2
  • Publisher: University of Mississippi, University
  • ISSN: 1676-2797

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Deflection; Geographic information systems; Ground penetrating radar; Nondestructive tests; Pavements
• Uncontrolled Terms: Subsurface analysis; Voids
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Pavements; I22: Design of Pavements, Railways and Guideways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01006576
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 28 2005 10:54AM