Estimation of Dielectric Constant Distribution Utilizing Subsurface Objects Based on Radar Image Focusing

We propose a non-destructive method to estimate dielectric constant distribution based on radar image focusing. Water leaks from pipes and deterioration of materials in buildings have a significant impact on building users. However, they are often covered with materials, and periodic inspection is time-consuming. Electromagnetic radar is capable of detecting material changes since the dielectric constant significantly changes where the material is deteriorated or flooded. Several methods have been proposed to estimate a uniform dielectric constant of materials by using electromagnetic radar. In this paper, we obtain spatially-changing constant distribution by using buried objects such as pipes and rebars in such a manner that their radar image obtain a better focus, which means that the objects are clearly visualized.