Revolutionizing Unmarked Grave Detection: Subterra Grey vs. Traditional GPR

A New Era for Forensic and Law Enforcement Investigations

Unmarked grave detection has long posed significant challenges for law enforcement, forensic professionals, and researchers. Traditional methods like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) have served as the industry standard for decades, but recent advances in soil spectroscopy like S4 Mobile Laboratories’ Subterra Grey are transforming the landscape of subsurface investigations.

How GPR Works—and Its Limitations

GPR uses radar pulses to image the subsurface, detecting disturbances and voids that may indicate graves. It’s non-destructive and effective for mapping large areas, making it a preferred choice for cemeteries and historic sites. However, GPR’s accuracy can be limited by soil conditions, depth, and the age of the burial. Older graves, especially those without intact vaults or caskets, often produce faint or ambiguous signals, leading to inconclusive results and higher investigation costs.

The Subterra Grey Advantage: Spectroscopy in Action

Subterra Grey leverages visible and infrared spectroscopy to analyze soil chemistry in situ. By detecting the unique chemical signatures—such as fatty acids and salts—left by human decomposition, Subterra Grey provides direct evidence of human burials, even in cases where physical remains have long since deteriorated. 

Key benefits include:

• Improved Accuracy: Direct detection of human-specific chemical residues offers more definitive results, reducing false positives and missed graves.

• Instantaneous Results: Real-time, quantitative analysis enables immediate decision-making at the scene.

• Minimal Training Required: The system is designed for use by law enforcement and forensic teams without specialized scientific backgrounds.

• Cost Efficiency: Subterra Grey requires no consumables or sample extraction, resulting in near-zero operating costs and faster site clearance.

• Enhanced Case Closure Rates: By providing clear, actionable data, Subterra Grey expedites investigations, supporting higher rates of successful case resolution.

  
  

Subterra Grey vs. GPR: A Comparative Snapshot

Feature	Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)	Subterra Grey Spectroscopy
Detection Method	Radar imaging	Soil chemical analysis
Accuracy (old graves)	Variable, often low	High, even with degraded remains
Operating Cost	Moderate (equipment, labor)	Low (no consumables, single operator)
Real-Time Results	Yes, but requires interpretation	Yes, with quantitative indicators
Training Requirement	Technical	Minimal
Case Closure Impact	Moderate	High

The Future of Forensic Grave Detection

As forensic science evolves, combining traditional GPR with innovative spectroscopy like Subterra Grey offers a comprehensive approach to unmarked grave detection. For law enforcement and forensic professionals, this means more reliable evidence, reduced costs, and greater support for families and communities seeking closure.

Ready to revolutionize your investigations?

Contact S4 Mobile Laboratories today to learn how Subterra Grey can enhance your unmarked grave detection efforts and bring greater accuracy, efficiency, and compassion to your forensic work.