A concept of heterogeneous numerical model of concrete for GPR simulations

The Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) method, which is increasingly being used in the non-destructive diagnostics of reinforced concrete structures, often needs more accurate interpretation tools for analysis of experimental data. Recently, there has been growing interest in developing of various numerical models for exhaustive understanding of GPR data. This paper presents the concept of a heterogeneous numerical model of concrete, in which individual components of concrete are separate materials and their location in the model is pseudo-random. The numerical model was validated with the Complex Refractive Index Model (CRIM). In addition, experimental surveys were conducted on a reinforced concrete footbridge with high saturation of water. Experimental radargrams were compared with numerical GPR maps, calculated using both homogeneous and heterogeneous models of concrete.