Controlled GPR grave research: Comparison of reflection profiles between 500 and 250 MHz antennae

    Authors

    J. J. Schultz;M. M. Martin

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Forensic Sci.Int.

    Keywords

    Controlled geophysical research; Ground-penetrating radar; Forensic; archaeology; Controlled graves; GROUND-PENETRATING RADAR; FORENSIC ARCHAEOLOGY; GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS; CLANDESTINE GRAVES; SEARCH; BURIALS; EXAMPLE; Medicine, Legal

    Abstract

    Since ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has become a popular search option for clandestine graves, controlled research is essential to determine the numerous variables that affect grave detection. The purpose of this study was to compare GPR reflection profiles of a controlled grave containing a large pig carcass and a blank control grave at 6 months interment in a Spodosol, which is a common soil type in Florida. Data collection was performed in perpendicular orientations over the graves using both 500 and 250 MHz antennae. Since reflection profiles are used to make initial in-field assessments during a forensic search, it is important for controlled research to evaluate this imagery option. Overall, it was possible to detect the grave containing a pig carcass at 6 months interment that was buried in a Spodosol using both the 500 and the 250 MHz antennae. While the 500 MHz antenna providedmore detail within the grave containing a pig carcass, including detecting a soil disturbance and the pig carcass, the 250 MHz antenna also provided excellent imagery. Either antenna would provide optimal results for the type of soil that was sampled. Furthermore, it may be possible to locate actual forensic graves in this soil type when no response from the body is noted, as there may be a discernable response from the disturbed soil within the grave shaft and a noticeable disruption of the spodic horizon. Finally, survey orientation may also affect detection. Since data collection performed in two perpendicular directions detected the pig carcass and the grave floor of the control grave, data collection for an actual search involving a body interred for a long postmortem interval should be performed in both directions when time permits. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

    Journal Title

    Forensic Science International

    Volume

    209

    Issue/Number

    1-3

    Publication Date

    1-1-2011

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    64

    Last Page

    69

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000291034100019

    ISSN

    0379-0738

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