An investigation into the railway ballast dielectric properties using different GPR antennas and frequency systems. (January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tosti, Fabio; Bianchini Ciampoli, Luca; Calvi, Alessandro; Alani, Amir M.; Benedetto, Andrea
• Is Part Of: NDT & E international. Volume 93(2018)
• Page Start: 131
• Page End: 140
• Publication Date: 2018-01
• Subjects: Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) -- Railway ballast -- Non-destructive testing -- Antenna frequency -- Antenna systems -- Relative dielectric permittivity; Nondestructive testing -- Periodicals; Contrôle non destructif -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 620.1127
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ndteint.2017.10.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-8695

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents an investigation into the relative dielectric permittivity of railway ballast using ground-penetrating radar (GPR). To this effect, the experimental tests are carried out using a container (methacrylate material) of dimensions 1.5 × 1.5 × 0.5 m. GPR systems equipped with different ground-coupled and air-coupled antennas and central frequencies of 600 MH, 1000 MHz, 1600 MHz and 2000 MHz (standard and low-powered antenna systems) are used for testing purposes. Several processing methods are applied to assess and compare the dielectric permittivity of the ballast system under investigation. A comparison of the results identifies critical factors as well as antennas and central frequencies most suitable for the purpose. Highlights: Non-destructive assessment of the electromagnetic properties of railway ballast aggregates. Use of different GPR antennas and frequency systems within a unique experimental (laboratory) setup. Identify critical factors as well as antennas and central frequencies most suitable for the investigation of railway ballast.