Using Time Domain Reflectometry to Determine Depth of Fouling and Fouling Type in Railway Track Substructure

This study documents the development of a procedure for the identification of the depth and type of ballast fouling using the time domain reflectometry (TDR) technique. Ballast fouling leads to a reduction in the bearing capacity of the railway substructure, a decrease in the drainage capacity, and an increase in track deformation. As a consequence of these detrimental effects, rail tracks lose load capacity, ride comfort deteriorates, and...