Delineation of Fractures Using a 2D GPR Processing Strategy for 3D Imaging: Weak Zones within Carbonates at the Archaeological Site of Xochicalco in Mexico

Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Xochicalco, Mexico, has identified critical weak zones within carbonate rocks that threaten archaeological stability. Using a novel 2D Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) processing strategy—specifically multipath summation on densely spaced parallel lines—the study successfully imaged fractures and potential caverns at depths of 1.6m and 1.8m. These findings suggest that cracks in the Quetzalcoatl Temple, which appeared after a significant earthquake in 2017, are linked to underlying structural weaknesses in the carbonate bedrock. The approach, employing a 400 MHz monostatic antenna, offers a precise method for assessing natural hazard impacts on cultural heritage sites.

Economou, N., Bano, M., & Ortega-Ramirez, J. (2021). Delineation of Fractures Using a 2D GPR Processing Strategy for 3D Imaging: Weak Zones within Carbonates at the Archaeological Site of Xochicalco in Mexico. Applied Sciences, 11(13), 5893. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11135893