Dam repair evaluation with GPR non-destructive testing

In the field of dam safety, non-destructive testing (NDT) methods can help accurately determine what can be repaired and what needs to be replaced. Ground penetrating radar (GPR) can be used for NDT for dam evaluation applications. When it comes to dam safety, the benefits of NDT, and GPR more specifically, include a reduction in work and an increase in accurate data.

Dam safety inspections require detecting and analyzing the deterioration of concrete slabs. GPR can determine the type and location of concrete reinforcement and detect slab deterioration with ease. The technology is particularly well suited to establishing budgetary priorities by identifying the portion of the concrete containing the most concrete deterioration and/or rebar corrosion. GPR’s ability to determine the areas of the dam most in need of repair reduces work without compromising safety.

To accomplish this, GPR uses radar (radio detection and ranging) to transmit and receive high frequency electromagnetic waves to image the subsurface. The wave is transmitted into the concrete, soil or subsurface and reflects off the different materials with which it interacts. The reflected signals are used to detect objects, changes in material, and voids and cracks.

Improved GPR technology has substantially enhanced dam inspection results. GPR is one of the main non-destructive technologies used to assess the structural integrity and physical condition of dams. Understanding the true physical condition of a dam allows maintenance and repairs to be made to ensure the physical safety of the surrounding community …more