Study of peatland internal structure by the Ground Penetrating Radar

Abstract

According to background data, bog systems can be successfully surveyed using the ground penetrating radar (GPR). The high contrast resolution of peat due to its electrical characteristics accounts for this. This paper demonstrates the results of the GPR usage in the Republic of Karelia (Russia). Data collection was carried out by the OKO-2 radar with the 150M antenna unit (150 MHz frequency). Data from stratigraphic columns was used as reference information. The brightest element on the radar profile is the boundary line of the bog mineral base, comprising of sand. All of the GPR traces allow to reliably identify facies, which can be correlated with peat types. The radar profiles were compared with the peat decomposition level indicators. It was defined that change in levels of peat decomposition leads to emergence of new reflective boundary lines. The research conducted demonstrates the high efficiency of GPR in identifying the composition and structure of peat deposits. It is established that different peat types generate specific GPR facies, which can be used as search attributes. The comparison between the GPR interpretation results and core section drilling materials confirms the reliability of the conclusions reached.