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Ground-penetrating
radar (GPR) data is generated by the reflection of
pulses of energy transmitted into the ground. The energy
bounces off the buried features, and is detected with a
receiving antenna. Each below-ground feature reflects
this energy in its own unique way. Objects, and soils of
different densities will generate detectable signals. By
providing the user with the ability to “see” below the
surface without disturbing anything, GPR is the ideal
tool for locating sensitive features such as graves.
Forensic geophysical
surveys employing the use of shallow ground radar
imaging technology have been utilized world wide for the
detection of archaeological forensic targets for nearly
20 years . Forensic geophysical surveys can locate
burial sites from ancient times up to recent burials
based upon the disturbance of the ground conditions. It
also can be useful also to sort out the location of
empty but pre-sold burial sites through the use of GPR
imagery techniques. Interpretation is conducted mainly
in ‘live-time’ by a geophysicist or forensic
archaeologist with interim reports presented ‘live-time’
as well as full reports depending upon the cemetery’s
requirements.
GPS methods are
non-destructive, preserving the cemetery and the graves
for future generations.
Production rates will vary according to both ground and
weather conditions but under normal conditions it is
possible that up to 100 graves may be examined per day.
Though GPR does not
currently reveal details such as skeletons or coffins,
it does show excavation features.
In some cases,
the actual shafts of the burial were detected, while in
other cases, only the near-surface soil truncation was
detected. By analyzing the slice-maps, it is possible
to determine that some of the burials were interred on
the east side of their headstone, while others were
interred on the west side. Some caskets were wooden
with no metal, some were lead-lined, and others
contained significant metal. Furthermore, GPR was able
to detect sometimes only slight void spaces caused by
partial collapse of the coffin.
Additional
Information and examples of use:
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