How does GPR measure the thickness of concrete?
GPR uses radar waves to penetrate the concrete and determine its thickness. A technician scans the slab with the scanner, which collects a profile. This works because the radar waves penetrate concrete, soil, metal and other materials at different rates. The technician receives an immediate reading on the scanner’s screen, and can even save images to share. The variations in the thickness are then marked directly on the concrete with a permanent pen, chalk or on paper taped to the slab.
While the depth results are not 100% exact, GPR offers an accurate estimate which is effective for most purposes. GPR scans for thickness can also help make the process easier because they locate supports and other structures within the concrete. These can then be marked and avoided during drilling, trenching, cutting or coring.