Evaluation, Development, and Implementation of 3D GPR for Assessment of Minnesota Infrastructure

Abstract

This research project evaluated the 3D Radar ground penetrating radar (3D GPR) equipment to determine applications and develop software for immediate use. A major focus was the use of 3D GPR to determine asphalt compaction uniformity. Other pavement assessment applications were explored. The research resulted in the development of new software that provides on-site mapping shortly after the last roller pass is completed on new construction. This provides the potential to select validation locations and give feedback to the contractor detailing the as-constructed performance during the paving process. The outputs of the software were also designed to allow for comparison with other technology and as-constructed information. (A user’s guide for the software is included in the project final report.) Overall, the use of 3D GPR with the developed software, combined with as-constructed data such as Intelligent Compaction pass counts, vibration amplitude, and other measures, can lead to better asphalt compaction and longer lasting roads.