Forensic Investigation and Geophysics

Archaeology » Archaeology methods » Forensic archaeology » Forensic Investigation

In general geophysics method was used for Forensic Archaeology investigation. Identifying the disturbed soils, gravels, metal objects, voids, and rock concentrations are the basics along with the inculcation of geophysical method equipment. The geophysical process has three basic methods and it includes:

  • Ground Penetrating Radar
  • Electrical resistivity and
  • Magnetometer.


Geophysics has a highly sensitive metal detector which is used for positive results like casing, bullets or buries weapons. The scientific literature on geophysical methods contains different opinions about the appropriate alternative strategies. There are four basic principles used in geophysics forensic archaeology which is used as guidance to the forensic investigation team.



The first principle of geophysics:


It’s a precise and effective program; having collaboration with law enforcement during the implementation and planning phases, it is most important in previous process of geophysical image data processing and visual exploration



Second principle:

Particular strengths of each and every technique are included in the search Program to apply multiple geophysical methods.Apt in this regard, integrated surveys use magnetometers; ground penetrating radar, resistivity, and thermal camera imaging.  A measurement of geophysical method is one pixel on a computer screen.

The third one is the geophysical record which can be a by-product of past behavior of human and it is effective. The geophysical evidence can tell us a great amount of information about a crime scene. And the final principle of geophysical method is each and every effort should be made to utilize the newest GPR, magnetic survey and electrical resistivity.




GPR

EM wave energy transmission and reflections are properties of GPR methods. Frequency range of EM waves centered is 100 and 500 MHz; it’s transmitted into the soil from a broadband antenna source to the ground’s surface with direct contact. The expression of EM wave is up to antenna surface when they encounter marked changes in subsurface soils.



The most of the signal strength is dissolute to relatively close to the soil surface, almost about two meters restricting the penetration. This rang off limits does not affect forensic archaeology investigations. This is the major drawback of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).