Ground penetrating radar (GPR) applications in concrete pavements

This article aims to outline the established Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) applications for concrete pavements that are currently under development or not yet commonly applied. GPR is a non-destructive method that detects variations in the electromagnetic properties of materials, primarily the permittivity. The principles of GPR systems operation, including signal processing and data interpretation practices, are summarized in this study to review current and future uses of GPR in concrete pavement detail analysis. The use of different approaches besides GPR, makes pavement evaluation more efficient and provides more details of the material properties. In concrete pavement structure investigations, GPR technology has been utilized to detect layer thickness and rebar properties, and it also determines subsurface defects and assesses base layer conditions. In quality control studies, GPR technology is implemented for thickness and air void content measurements. Future research may include investigating GPR technique in supporting pavement designs and repair strategies. Regardless of the benefits, several limitations are reported that prevent using this technique for pavement investigation on a broader scale. The problems associated with this procedure, such as the accuracy of the method and the difficulties in interpreting recorded signals, are discussed.

Automated summary

This article outlines the applications of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) in concrete pavements, including detecting layer thickness, rebar properties, defects, and base layer conditions. GPR technology is used for pavement evaluation through different approaches, providing more details of material properties, and also for thickness and air void content measurements.