Areas of GPR application in researches of historical masonry structures

Abstract Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is currently one of the most rapidly developing non-destructive testing method. Widely used in civil engineering and structural engineering, it is also often applied in the field of monument preservation. Since the historic substance is not as homogeneous and predictable as currently used, the use of GPR for its investigation is a challenge for researchers. This study seeks to assist researchers in determining the feasibility of employing GPR for addressing specific challenges related to masonry monuments. The paper compiles case studies on investigations of masonry historic structures using GPR. The problems were systematized and divided according to the GPR application areas. Then the authors created a special masonry research model, which was modified accordingly and examined with a hand-held GPR to verify the conclusions gathered in the scope of the research study. At the end, followed by a discussion, the analysis of the effectiveness of the application of this device in individual areas was carried out.