Sonic Tree Tomography & Internal Tree Decay Assessments
Sonic Tree Tomography in Ireland
Tree Logic Consultants provides professional Sonic Tree Tomography and Internal Tree Decay Assessments throughout Ireland. This non-destructive testing technology enables us to assess the internal condition of trees without causing damage, providing information on decay, cavities, and structural integrity.
Sonic tomography is one of the most effective methods available for evaluating the condition of mature, veteran, and high-value trees. It provides objective data to support tree management decisions while helping to retain trees wherever it is safe to do so.
What is Sonic Tree Tomography?
Sonic Tree Tomography is an advanced diagnostic technique that measures the speed of sound waves travelling through the trunk of a tree.
Healthy wood transmits sound quickly, while decayed, hollow, or weakened wood slows the sound waves. By analysing hundreds of measurements, specialist software produces a colour-coded image showing the internal condition of the stem.
This allows arboricultural consultants to identify:
Internal decay
Cavities and hollow stems
Cracks and structural defects
Areas of weakened timber
Extent of sound wood remaining
Structural integrity of the trunk
The assessment provides valuable evidence when determining whether a tree can be safely retained or requires management.
Non-Destructive Tree Decay Detection
Unlike invasive investigations, Sonic Tree Tomography is a non-destructive testing method. Small sensors are positioned around the circumference of the stem, allowing internal decay to be assessed without drilling or removing significant amounts of timber.
This makes the technique particularly suitable for:
Veteran trees
Protected trees
Trees subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
Historic landscapes
Public parks
Schools
Heritage sites
High-value specimen trees
Benefits of Sonic Tree Tomography
Non-destructive investigation
Detects hidden internal decay
Identifies cavities and hollow stems
Supports tree retention
Reduces unnecessary tree removal
Provides objective evidence
Assists tree risk assessments
Suitable for valuable and veteran trees
Supports insurance and legal investigations
Complements Visual Tree Assessments (VTA)