Concrete scanning services can save both time and money during excavation because the technology makes it possible to assess underground features and items that may be lodged in solid surfaces. Concrete scanning uses a technology that is similar to X-ray, so while it is called concrete scanning, it also has many uses. The technology used for concrete scanning is known as Ground-penetrating radar or GPR.
Ground-penetrating radar or GPR is a device used to locate underground objects. The device works by using wavelengths that are much like radio waves. GPR gives off low intensity radiation that is harmless to humans, meaning that operators of GPR are not at risk for harmful exposure to radiation.
Scanning is accomplished by placing an antenna close to the ground. The antenna emits a radar signal to the ground. Ground-penetrating radar transmits energy through the ground and solid surfaces like concrete, rock, wood, ice, soil and water. When energy is transmitted and “hits” the desired medium, it reflects back, sending a signal to same antenna or to a nearby antenna. As the antennas are moved along the surface of the ground, a graphic display or radar image of the earth is shown on a graphic recorder. The electrical conductivity of the material being assessed affects the quality of the energy reflected back to the receiver. The penetration depth of GPR increases with electrical conductivity.
Ground-penetrating radar is used extensively in construction. It helps workers locate pipes, buried cables, storage tanks and anything else of interest that might be buried underground. This process is generally used for mapping utilities when deep or extensive digging or excavation takes place whether for a home landscaping, highway or other a major construction project. It also is used in forensic investigations by law enforcement agencies.
Another use for concrete scanning is to locate conduits or rebar in concrete slabs. This eliminates the need for unnecessary cutting or digging and reduces the risk of injury from electrocution when electrical infrastructure could be damaged by digging into concrete slabs.
Concrete scanning may be used to assess the strength of underground tunnels, the integrity of bridges and for assessing underground contamination. It can also be used for some interesting tasks such as locating or confirming historic burial sites, cemeteries or archaeological sites. Other applications include assessment of above-ground and underground structures when it may be unsafe to enter.
When hiring a company to provide concrete scanning it is wise to ask questions about the qualifications of the personnel. These questions include how long the company has been business, can the company provide references and what types of training and certification are required for technicians?
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