An optimization of the work disruption by 3D cavity mapping using GPR: A new sewerage project in Torrente (Valencia, Spain)

This paper describes the inspection for cavity detection in an urban area in Torrente (Valencia, Spain). A shallow cave was found during the excavation work for a new sewerage project. Digging activities were stopped immediately and a GPR survey (400 MHz antenna) was required to reorganise the sewerage planning. The 3D GPR-mapping pinpointed most of the detected cavities on one side of the street. As a result, the sewerage system layout was moved to the side of the street where less evidence of cavities was detected. Therefore, GPR technique is a helpful tool for minimizing costs, time, work safety risks and inconveniences to people living in the neighbourhood during civil engineering works, especially in urbanised areas. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.