Ground Penetrating Radar technology is versatile in that when investigating to locate certain subsurface objects it can also determine if anything else significant is in the area. GPR provides real-time results which can allow a project manager to interpret data and mark the findings on the surface in a clear manner. These methods help to create a safer environment by locating subsurface utilities, underground storage tanks, voids, etc.

The Environmental Department of a University in Ann Arbor, MI had a suspicion at an older facility that an underground storage tank was present. They had seen signs on the interior and exterior of a particular building at the site of unknown pipes that could have possibly provided fuel or oil to an underground storage tank at one time. There weren’t any records indicating that a UST was taken out in the past and the University was set to start construction of the space. They wanted more information if there was, in fact, a UST at the site before demolition began. Ground Penetrating Radar Systems was contacted by the University to conduct a GPR Investigation of the building’s interior and exterior to determine if a UST was onsite. GPRS scanned the entire inside of the property and didn’t see any anomalies on the radar that would indicate a UST. While scanning the back portion of the building, GPRS marked numerous sewer pipes in the area. They also marked a couple areas of concern that represented potential voids beneath the surface. They communicated the findings to the Environmental Dept. representative to further explore the concerned areas.

For more information on how GPRS can help with your next subsurface project in the Ann Arbor & Detroit area, contact Regional Manager, Thaddeus Bullock, at (734) 377-4551 or thaddeus.bullock@gprsinc.com.