Forensic GPR: finite-difference simulations of responses from buried humanremains

Time domain 2.5-D finite-difference simulations of ground-penetrating radar (GPR) responses from models of buried human remains suggest the potential of GPR for detailed non-destructive forensic site investigation. Extraction of information beyond simple detection of cadavers in forensic investigati ons should be possible with current CPR technology. GPR responses are simul ated for various body cross-sections with different depths of burial, soil types, soil moisture contents, survey frequencies and antenna separations. Biological tissues have high electrical conductivity so diagnostic features For the imaging of human bodies are restricted to the soil/skin interface and shallow tissue interfaces. A low amplitude reflection shadow zone occur s beneath a body because of high GPR attenuation within the: body. Resoluti on of diagnostic features of a human target requires a survey frequency of 900 MHz or greater and an increment between recording stations of 10 cm or less. Depth migration focuses field GPR data into an image that reveals acc urate information on the number, dimensions, locations and orientations of body elements. The main limitation on image quality is attenuation in the s urrounding soil and within the body. 3-D imaging is also feasible. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.