Geophysical Methods Applied to Tunnel Construction

Recently geophysical techniques have been used successfully to solve geotechnical problems during tunnel construction. Non-destructive methods such as ground penetrating radar (GPR), high resolution seismic (refraction, reflection and cross-hole tomography) and resistivity surveys have been applied from the inner surface of tunnels or minitunnels to detect cavities, fractures, inhomogeneities and geomechanical properties in shallow zones where boring has disturbed the rocks.