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Abstract
The preservation of natural assets is nowadays an essential commitment. In this regard, root systems are endangered by fungal diseases which can undermine the health and stability of trees. Within this framework, ground penetrating radar (GPR) is emerging as a reliable non-destructive method for root investigation. A coherent GPR-based root-detection framework is presented in this paper. The proposed methodology is a multi-stage data analysis system that is applied to semi-circular measurements collected around the investigated tree. In the first step, the raw data are processed by applying several standard and advanced signal processing techniques in order to reduce noise-related information. In the second stage, the presence of any discontinuity element within the survey area is investigated by analysing the signal reflectivity. Then, a tracking algorithm aimed at identifying patterns compatible with tree roots is implemented. Finally, the mass density of roots is estimated by means of continuous functions in order to achieve a more realistic representation of the root paths and to identify their length in a continuous and more realistic domain. The method was validated in a case study in London (UK), where the root system of a real tree was surveyed using GPR and a soil test pit was excavated for validation purposes. Results support the feasibility of the data processing framework implemented in this study.
Highlights
Trees and forests are valuable resources for humankind and nature
The case study reported in this paper demonstrates the validity of the proposed methodology for the assessment of tree root systems
The present study clearly demonstrated that the use of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for the investigation of tree root systems is the new frontier of forestry practices and the conservation of the naturalistic heritage
Summary
Trees and forests are valuable resources for humankind and nature. There is scientific evidence regarding the effects that trees and forests have on human health [2,3], as they contribute to the reduction in pollution [4,5] and noise [6], provide food and medical substances [7], and serve as a source of essential products, including timber, fuel, waxes, oils, gums, and resins [1]. Trees and forests provide much-needed resources and protection for different species. They protect buildings, infrastructures and crops from sunlight, winds, and flooding [7], and reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling of buildings [8]. For the reasons mentioned above, the safeguarding, health monitoring and assessment of trees, forests and woodland are of paramount importance
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