Aggregates scattering of GPR waves in concrete

Abstract

Time slices of very dense GPR measurements carried out at concrete with a real point distance of less than 10 mm in x and y direction show weak reflection patterns besides the strong reflections of reinforcements. A repetition of these measurements with the same local geometrical precision at the same specimen shows the same reflection pattern. We suppose that the heterogeneity of concrete given by aggregates (e.g. gravel, broken granite) causes local weak scattering of the GPR waves and leads to reflection patterns in the GPR data. These reflection patterns can be explained by a superposition of multiple scatterings of single aggregates. So far these reflection patterns have been not recognized in standard time slices due to the large spacing (> 5 cm) between single profiles and because of the interpolation between the profiles. We investigate the characteristics of the volume scattering effects, caused by aggregates, at concrete blocks with two different grading curves. In a more general investigation we study the volume scattering of aggregates by using wooden boxes filled with only typical aggregates and an included defined reflector (metal plate). The thickness of the aggregate layer above the metal plate was varied between 20 cm and 40 cm. With a very dense measuring grid at the surface we are able to calculate the effective volume scattering and to analyze the distribution of the reflection amplitude of the included metal plate for different aggregate set-ups. Results of this study confirm that the weak reflection patterns in concrete can be explained by aggregate scattering and have a direct correlation to the penetration depth of GPR in concrete.