Aptitude of the near-field direct wave of ground-coupled radar antennas for the characterisation of the covercrete

This paper focuses on the influence of some physical properties of concrete on the characteristics of the transmitter–receiver direct wave of ground-coupled radar antennas. Although this particular signal is often considered as a time and geometrical reference, experimental results obtained on laboratory concrete samples highlight relationships between the characteristics of the direct wave and the degree of pore saturation and/or the resistivity of concrete. These relationships clearly demonstrate the aptitude of the direct wave for the characterisation of concrete.