🌳 Tree Decay Detection: Comparing the PiCUS Sonic Tomograph & Resistograph Micro-Drill

Assessing the internal health of trees is essential for ensuring public safety—especially near roads, parks, and buildings. Two advanced diagnostic tools used by arborists are the PiCUS Sonic Tomograph and the Resistograph Micro-Drill. While both aim to detect internal decay, they use very different technologies and are best suited for different scenarios.


🌀 What Is the PiCUS Sonic Tomograph?

The PiCUS Sonic Tomograph is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to assess the internal structure of tree trunks.


✅ How It Works:

  • Sensor Placement: Small nails are tapped into the tree’s outer bark to hold sonic sensors.
  • Sound Propagation: Sound waves are sent through the wood from one sensor to another.
  • Speed Analysis: Sound travels faster through solid wood and slower through decayed or hollow sections.
  • Tomogram Output: Software generates a 2D image (tomogram) showing areas of concern.


🎯 Key Benefits:

  • Non-invasive and repeatable
  • Produces a full cross-sectional image
  • Excellent for large, historic, or high-value trees


🔩 What Is the Resistograph Micro-Drill?


The Resistograph Micro-Drill uses a fine mechanical drill to measure the resistance of wood along a horizontal line.

✅ How It Works:

  • A 1.5 mm drill bit is driven slowly into the tree.
  • The resistance encountered is graphed, showing variations in wood density.
  • Low resistance areas suggest decay, cavities, or cracks.

🎯 Key Benefits:

  • Extremely sensitive to internal changes
  • Provides precise decay depth and location
  • Ideal for confirming specific areas of concern


⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison

   Feature PiCUS Sonic Tomograph Resistograph Micro-Drill     Method Sonic tomography Mechanical resistance drilling   Invasiveness Minimal (sensor nails only) Low (very fine drill needle)   Output 2D visual tomogram Line graph of wood resistance   Ideal Use Broad decay assessment Precise decay confirmation   Repeatable? Yes, without lasting damage Limited by accumulated drill holes   🧠


When to Use Each Tool

  • Start with PiCUS when you need a general internal health map of the tree.
  • Follow up with Resistograph to pinpoint exact decay locations or confirm tomogram findings.

Together, they form a powerful, complementary toolkit for advanced tree risk assessments.


🎥 See It In Action

Watch how the PiCUS Sonic Tomograph works in this demonstration video:
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🌲 Conclusion


The PiCUS Sonic Tomograph and Resistograph Micro-Drill each offer unique strengths. Used independently or together, they help arborists make informed decisions, reduce tree failure risk, and ensure public safety with minimal impact on the tree.

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