Depth Performance Analysis of GPR Array Featuring Extended Dynamic Range

GPR is one of the most reliable instruments to obtain information on underground utilities. In fact, amongst the various state-of-the-art methods available, it is a noninvasive technique capable of accurately locating both metallic and non-metallic buried objects. As a result of the need for efficient systems for mapping subsoil utilities in areas with reduced maneuverability, such as sidewalks, squares, and pedestrian zones, a compact GPR array solution shall be used. The size constraints given by such architecture impact on the radiant element design, implying a working bandwidth placed in UHF band, thus providing a reduced depth of investigation. Recently, a new system named Stream DP has been introduced to the market, designed with a new architecture to address the depth limitations of existing UHF GPR used for underground utility mapping. This paper reports the description of the Stream DP GPR and performance comparison with its predecessor system, Stream C.