Super Resolution Technique for GPR Detection of Layered Media

Abstract

Ground Penetrating Radar is one of the most popular non-destructive subsurface exploration system available to us. Due to the advent of technology in the field of remote sensing, GPR systems have been put to use in a wide variety of applications. Here we are concerned with the extraction of layered media properties. Exploration of layered medias have become an important part in the progress of road development. In order to obtain the necessary layered media parameters, different signal processing methods have been put to use. As the received GPR signal is obtained in spectral domain, different Super-Resolution algorithms were put to use. Their need is felt when we come across very thin layered media. By using normal IFFT inversion technique, we are unable to resolve very closely spaced targets, which are below its range resolution. These spectral estimation techniques paves the way for layer stripping approach to obtain the necessary layered media parameters. Layer stripping is an effective, timing efficient method used for practical field applications. We also have inversion approach of full wave modelling. It gives us accurate estimates of underground layered media properties. But the main drawback is its complexity and time consuming nature. This feature makes it very difficult to provide instantaneous results during field operations. As a result, depending upon the nature of application involved, we can implement either layer stripping or full wave modelling approach. But in general, if pin point accuracy is not needed, then layer stripping approach is the better alternative