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Sinkhole Detection and Void Detection Surveys

sinkhole_detection and void detection handcartGeoModel, Inc. conducts sinkhole detection and void detection surveys throughout the United States. GeoModel, Inc.  uses ground penetrating radar (GPR) to locate subsurface sinkholes and detect voids. GeoModel, Inc. only uses licensed Professional Geologists with Master’s degrees in Geology to conduct each void detection or sinkhole location survey.

In addition to the sinkhole detection GPR survey, the GeoModel, Inc. Professional Geologist will also observe geologic features in the area that may be related to any sinkhole activity or underground voids. To further investigate a sinkhole location or void location study, the GeoModel, Inc. geologist will conduct research of other sinkholes detected in the area, the general geology in the area, and recent hazard events such as a flood or drought.

Basic Principles of Ground Penetrating Radar for Sinkhole Detection and Void Location

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) produces a continuous record of subsurface soil and rock conditions, in the form of a cross-sectional profile. Radar profiles can be used for sinkhole location and void detection by observing the GPR data on the computer screen in real time.

sinkhole and model for sinkhole detection and void detection

GPR image and model from a sinkhole location survey prior to sinkhole collapse

The most optimum time to have a sinkhole survey conducted on your property is before the sinkhole collapses, when the full structure of the sinkhole is intact and any air pockets or loose soils are still present.

During a void location or sinkhole detection survey, GPR uses an antenna, or transducer, to transmit brief pulses of energy into the ground. The antenna is housed in a protective box that is pulled along the ground by hand or behind a vehicle or ATV. Direct contact with the ground promotes the transfer of the radar waves into the ground for the detection and location of sinkholes and voids.

The depth of penetration of the ground penetrating radar signal for void location or sinkhole location depends on the radar antenna used and the conductivity of the subsurface materials surrounding the sinkhole or void. Antennas with low frequencies, such as 200 megahertz (MHz), have greater penetration (up to 30 feet) in highly resistive material such as dry quartz sand or clean limestone.

sinkhole formation and sinkhole detection
sinkhole_yard_sm for sinkhole location and void detection

High frequency antennas, such as 400-MHz, have lower (more shallow) penetration but higher resolution. Investigations for shallow (9 feet or less deep) sinkhole detection, smaller void location, or soil horizon subsidence, can be conducted with these higher frequency antennas.

Sinkhole location or void detection surveys are conducted most often in karst limestone areas. However, sinkhole detection and void location investigations may also be recommended in areas with soft soil, in areas where water or sewer pipes have broken, after a flood to check for flood damage, or where mining or other surface or subsurface disturbance activities have occurred.

void detection under concrete_sm

void detection under concrete using gpr

sinkhole_house_sm GPR for sinkhole detection

bedrock_karst

sinkhole_truck survey for sinkhole detection and void detection

Latest Project

Example of 6 Unmarked Graves Located by GeoMdoel Inc.

Case Study: Historic Cemetery in North Carolina

In May 2021, GeoModel, Inc. conducted a ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey to locate unmarked graves in an historic church cemetery near Black Mountain, North Carolina.  Over one acre was scanned … [read more]

GeoModel News

Historic Cemetery Survey in South Lake Tahoe, California

In 2020, GeoModel, Inc. conducted a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey at the Historic Pioneer Cemetery located in South Lake Tahoe, California. GeoModel, Inc. located and confirmed 105 burials in … [read more]

Stanton Family Cemetery Survey Conducted by GeoModel, Inc.

Earlier this year in 2020, GeoModel, Inc. conducted a grave locating survey at the Stanton Family Cemetery in Buckingham County, Virginia.  The cemetery is approximately 65 feet by 68 feet and … [read more]

GeoModel

All GPR surveys are conducted or supervised by:

  • Certified Professional Geologists with More Than 20 Years of Experience
  • 40-Hour OSHA Hazwoper-Trained Professionals
  • ISNetworld Member Company
  • Operators using FCC-approved Equipment
  • Field crews available nationwide
  • Woman-Owned Small Business (WBE)

Quicklinks

  • What is Ground Penetrating Radar
  • Utility Location
  • Cemetery and Grave Location and Mapping
  • Sinkhole and Void Detection
  • Underground Storage Tank Detection and Buried Drum Detection
  • Geology, Bedrock and Geologic Hazards
  • Landfill Detection, Burial Trench Delineation, and Contaminant Plume Mapping
  • Concrete and Rebar Inspection
  • Archaeological and Environmental Studies
  • Brine Pits, Reserve Pits, Leaking Brine Pipes

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geomodel@geomodel.com
703-777-9788
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