No-contact High-Frequency Large-Bandwith GPR scanner for floor investigation

Abstract

In this paper a no-contact high-frequency large-bandwidth ground penetrating radar (GPR) scanner specially designed for investigating floors is presented. It operates at 10 GHz central frequency with 4 GHz bandwidth. Its mechanical positioner is able to scan a surface 0.3 m wide and 1.9 m large. The aim of this radar is to gather information about the shallow layers (coat, screed, embedded heating or water pipes) up to 0.5 m depth. The radar has been tested in laboratory and in a real case study: the second floor of the Bellariva sport Centre in Florence (Italy). This floor is under investigation because an evident long crack.