What type of information can you gather from Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) in bridge inspection?
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) in bridge inspection provides information about subsurface conditions within the bridge deck or other concrete components. GPR can detect a variety of features and defects, including the location and depth of reinforcing steel (rebar), delamination (separation of concrete layers), voids or honeycombing within the concrete, moisture content variations, and the thickness of the concrete cover over the rebar. It can also identify the presence of embedded objects or utilities. The data is presented as a radar profile, which shows changes in the reflected signal strength as a function of depth. By analyzing the radar profile, inspectors can assess the condition of the concrete and identify areas that may require further investigation or repair. GPR is a valuable tool for non-destructive evaluation of bridge structures, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of their internal condition.