Trees provide numerous benefits to our environment, including improving air quality,
reducing carbon dioxide levels, and providing shade and beauty. However, trees can
also pose a risk to people and property if they are not healthy and stable. Sonic
tomography is an innovative technique used in tree risk assessment that can help
arborists evaluate the health and stability of trees.

What is Sonic Tomography?

Sonic tomography is a non-invasive technique used to evaluate the internal structure of
trees. It involves using a series of sensors or sensors and hammers to create sound
waves that pass through the tree. The speed and direction of the sound waves are then
recorded, and a three-dimensional image of the tree's internal structure is created.

How Does Sonic Tomography Help in Tree Risk Assessment?

Sonic tomography can help arborists identify areas of decay or damage inside a tree
that are not visible from the outside. By identifying these areas, arborists can better
assess the risk of the tree falling or losing branches, and take appropriate measures to
reduce the risk.

Sonic tomography can also help arborists determine the extent of decay or damage
within the tree, which can help guide decisions about whether to remove the tree or take
other measures to reduce the risk of failure.

How is Sonic Tomography Performed?

Performing sonic tomography involves a few key steps:
1. Setting up sensors: Sensors are placed around the tree trunk in a circular
pattern, typically at equal intervals. The number of sensors used depends on the
size of the tree and the level of detail desired.
2. Creating sound waves: Once the sensors are in place, a series of sound waves
are created by striking the trunk with a hammer or using a specialized device that
emits sound waves.
3. Recording data: The speed and direction of the sound waves are recorded by the
sensors and sent to a computer program, which uses the data to create a three-
dimensional image of the tree's internal structure.
4. Analysis: The three-dimensional image is analyzed by arborists to identify areas
of decay or damage within the tree.

Conclusion

Sonic tomography is a powerful tool for evaluating the health and stability of trees,
particularly those that are large or have significant internal decay or damage. By
identifying areas of decay or damage, arborists can better assess the risk of the tree
falling or losing branches, and take appropriate measures to reduce the risk. Sonic
tomography is a non-invasive technique that can be performed quickly and easily,
making it a valuable addition to any tree risk assessment program.