GPR

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is among the most widespread methodologies for structural investigations, mainly due to its versatility and expeditiveness.

When testing a reinforced concrete element, it provides a clear insight of all structural details, including its geometry and stratigraphy, its steel reinforcement and any metal or plastic embedded object. This makes it by definition the preferred tool for hit-prevention investigations, prior to drilling, coring or cutting. Its capability of providing a quick and accurate overview of the concrete cover over rebars is typically well exploited during as-built conformity checks, and fire resistance assessment. In addition to that, its proven ability to provide large-scale corrosion and deterioration maps is specifically appreciated as a preliminary investigation on bridges and roads maintenance programs.

In a similar way, GPR can be used on historical buildings to investigate the inner structure of masonry walls, columns, soffits and vaults in the most noninvasive and expedite way, which makes it a primary survey tool for rehabilitation, consolidation and renovation projects.