PROPAGATION OF A GROUND-PENETRATING RADAR (GPR) PULSE IN A THIN-SURFACE WAVEGUIDE

Abstract

Field observations are tested against modal propagation theory to find the practical limitations upon derivation of layer permittivities and signal attenuation rates from a radar moveout profile over two‐layer ground. A 65‐MHz GPR pulse was transmitted into a 30‐60‐cm‐thick surface waveguide of wet, organic silty to gravelly soil overlying a drier refracting layer of sand and gravel. Reflection profiles, trench stratigraphy, resistivity measurements, and sediment analysis were used to quantify the propagation medium and possible attenuation mechanisms.Highly dispersive modal propagation occurred within the waveguide through 35 m of observation. The fastest phase velocity occurred at the waveguide cutoff frequency of 30 MHz, which was well received by 100‐MHz antennas. This speed provides the refractive index of the lower layer, so the near‐cutoff frequencies must match a lower layer refraction. A slower, lower frequency phase of the dispersed pulse occurred at about 60–70 MHz, with an average attenuation ...