2D Spatial-Temporal Simulation of GPR Penetration in the 200-400MHz Band for Detecting Voids and Entrapped Persons in Multi-Layered Collapsed Building Structure

Abstract

This paper presents a foundational framework towards designing a portable, site-specific radar system for use in building collapse scenarios, focusing on the detection of voids beneath debris and analyzing GPR signals for locating hidden survivors. To analyze GPR signal characteristics, we employed the Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method, utilizing simulation tools such as gprMax and High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS) to model electromagnetic wave propagation within intricate multilayered debris structures. This paper examines the GPR A-scan, B-scan(radargram) and signal propagations across various configurations of collapse site structures, ranging from solely soil compositions to those incorporating thin or thick concrete and wooden layers, each with embedded voids and entrapped persons inside voids.This work aims to enhance the efficiency of survivor search and rescue operations at collapse sites, laying down a theoretical basis for validating experiments designed by real-world collapse scenarios. By scrutinizing the influence of GPR's operating frequency and the structural composition of debris on detection performance, the findings serve as crucial foundational data for tailoring GPR design and understanding detection characteristics pertinent to real-world conditions. © 2024 IEEE.