The need to inspect concrete structures arises from time to time. Sometimes it is the scheduled maintenance that requires to find out where the conduits are within the massive columns, sometimes it is the engineers who want to know the exact location of the reinforced bars in the slab in new construction, and sometimes the purpose is to ensure the structural integrity by finding out where the voids are in the structure.

     

Whatever the purpose is, the first priority is always to inspect the concrete structure indestructibly. That is where concrete scanning methods like GPR and X-Ray come into play.

Difference between X-Ray Concrete Scanning and GPR Concrete Scanning

GPR for concrete scanning uses electromagnetic energy to penetrate the concrete. The reflected signals from the concrete structure reveal the subsurface layout of a structure. Whereas, X-Ray method used radioactive energy from an emitting source and X-Ray film at the other side of the source to obtain images of the concrete's substructure. X-Ray scanning needs access to both sides of the concrete structure to produce images, whereas GPR scanning only needs access to one side. Both the methods are non-destructive, but due to the very process of testing, each method has its own pros and cons.

Why GPR Concrete Scanning is Preferred over X-Ray Concrete Scanning?

There are many reasons why GPR is preferred over X-Ray for concrete scanning. Here are some key points:

 

Ease and Versatility Of Scanning

GPR does not require pre-setup like X-Ray scanning. There is no need to place an X-ray film or access both sides of the concrete structure. You can perform the concrete scanning with GPR easily without any setup with GPR equipment. This makes the GPR a highly versatile method that can inspect almost any concrete structure. On the other hand, X-Ray scanning is a viable method only when an X-Ray film can be set up, which most times is not practical or too costly to do.

Immediate and Accurate results

GPR concrete scanning produces immediate and accurate results on the site. There is no need to develop images off-site as required with X-Ray scanning. X-ray scanning is a slow method that takes time to set up the equipment, developing images off-site, and interpretation by technicians to produce results. Sometimes, errors in interpretation may result in incorrect analysis.

Safety

The radiation level of X-Ray concrete scanning is far higher than the GPR concrete scanning, increasing the risk of exposure to the staff and technicians. On the other hand, GPR emits far less radiation than makes the GPR far safer. You can perform the concrete scanning anytime. There is no need to halt regular operations.

Concrete Insight Uses GPR for Concrete Scanning 

 

Concrete Insight used GPR for concrete scanning due to its cost-efficiency, accuracy, safety, convenience, and speedy results. We utilize the latest GPR technology to produce more reliable results.