Three-dimensional ground-penetrating radar methodologies for the characterization and volumetric reconstruction of underground tunneling

Abstract

This work presents the documentation and characterization of an ancient underground concrete tunnel using the ground-penetrating radar (GPR) method. Three-dimensional imaging methodologies were applied to create an accurate volumetric reconstruction of the underground tunneling space and the whole framework of galleries composing the main structure, which enabled for the dimensioning of the structure. Problems of moisture were also detected in a particular sector of the tunnel. In addition, FDTD modeling was used to improve the understanding of the GPR signal propagation and to assist the interpretation of the field GPR data. Both field and synthetic data have shown the capabilities of the method for the evaluation and characterization of this ancient construction.