The city of Taixing in East China's Jiangsu province has introduced advanced technology to conduct comprehensive checks on urban roads in a bid to avert the risk of road collapse.

The city has been using three-dimensional geological radar technology to conduct "physical examinations" on 16 main and secondary roads in urban areas to ensure travelers' safety.

On Jichuan Road, a 3D geological radar detection vehicle moved slowly forward on the road surface to conduct underground defect detection, with high-frequency electromagnetic waves emitted by the radar penetrating the road surface and clearly "seeing" the underground structures.

In the case of any underground cavities, voids, looseness or other defects, the vehicle will record the location, size and depth, offering advice for later maintenance and treatment, according to Li Guangfeng, a technician from Beijing Zhongcheng Infrastructure Engineering Inspection Co.

"For this inspection, we used highly-advanced 3D geological radar, which can achieve full coverage in data collection," Li said, adding that they would "provide a detailed and careful inspection report to provide a scientific basis for the subsequent repair and maintenance of roads."

As cities in China grow, road loads continue to increase and underground structures may have hidden dangers such as voids and detachment, which cannot be detected by a naked eye, Li said, stressing that, if they cannot be discovered or treated on time, road collapses may occur.

So far this year, 18 kilometers of motor vehicle lanes, non-motor vehicle lanes and sidewalks in Taixing have been inspected using the void detection technology.

Please contact the writer at hanjingyan@chinadaily.com.cn