On the Enhanced Scanning website, we often discuss our ground penetrating radar (GPR) scanning services in connection with locating utility lines and other potential hazards that are buried underground or embedded in concrete slabs. However, it should be noted that GPR scanning services can be used in many other instances. We just don’t mention them often because they are less common, and the majority of our clients utilize our services prior to starting a construction project. But here are a few other types of projects that could benefit from GPR scanning services:
Finding Evidence in Crime Investigations
GPR has been very useful to law enforcement in many instances. Because GPR is able to identify both metallic and non-metallic items (as opposed to metal detectors that can only locate metallic objects), it is able to help find things like buried human remains, in addition to buried weapons and other items that criminals choose to stash to try to avoid being caught. Not only can GPR find buried items, but it can also locate things that are hidden behind walls.
Because the results of a GPR scan can be delivered in real time, it allows law enforcement to acquire evidence quickly, which can lead to faster arrests.
Evaluating Roads and Bridges for Wear and Tear
Ground penetrating radar is also effective at analyzing roads, bridges, and even airport runways. As our country’s infrastructure ages, it’s important to evaluate it to determine when repairs need to be made. GPR can identify areas of corrosion, as well as any voids directly beneath roads that could cause a collapse. The needed data can be collected quickly, which means shorter periods of downtime in the areas being evaluated.
GPR Scanning Services on Archaeological Sites
Prior to an archaeological dig, a GPR scan can be done to help archaeologists decide on the best places to focus their efforts. GPR can find anomalies underground and tell archaeologists how deeply they are located. Not only can this help archaeologists make the best use of their time, but it can also help them avoid damaging buried artifacts during the excavation process.
You can read about how Enhanced Scanning helped archaeologists learn more about the Lo Jolla people by using GPR to locate non-native rocks on a dig site in Southern California.
GPR Scanning for Environmental Studies
For environmental scientists, GPR can be incredibly useful—particularly in monitoring groundwater resources. GPR can locate groundwater contaminants or predict the movement of contaminants, should they be introduced into the groundwater system. GPR can also identify contaminated soil by pinpointing “hotspots” that have high levels of contamination. Locating illegal dump sites is another use for GPR by environmental scientists.
Evaluating Snow and Ice Using GPR
Due to our company’s location in Southern California, this last GPR application is one we don’t have a lot of experience with. However, GPR is very effective at analyzing ice and snow. GPR can be used for things like monitoring the thickness of glaciers, evaluating avalanche conditions, and predicting snowmelt runoff.
Do you have an upcoming project that needs the expertise of our GPR technicians? Contact us at Enhanced Scanning to schedule service.