An investigation into the railway ballast dielectric properties using different GPR antennas and frequency systems

• Published in: NDT & E international : independent nondestructive testing and evaluation 2018-01, Vol.93, p.131-140
• Main Authors: Tosti, Fabio, Bianchini Ciampoli, Luca, Calvi, Alessandro, Alani, Amir M., Benedetto, Andrea
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antenna frequency; Antenna systems; Ground-penetrating radar (GPR); Non-destructive testing; Railway ballast; Relative dielectric permittivity
• ISSN: 0963-8695; 1879-1174
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ndteint.2017.10.003

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. •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.