MINEFIELD CLEARANCE.

Abstract

The methods for using Universal indicator mines to determine probabilities of detonation of anti-tank mines when subjected to blast are discussed. Scaling laws for normal bombs and atomic weapons are devised and methods for computing probabilities of detonation are given. An outline of the instrumentation and field procedure used in obtaining data during Operation BUSTER is given. The results show that, in addition to obtaining data for minefield clearance, estimates can be made of yield of the weapon and of peak pressure as a function of distance from ground zero. A rather radius of clearance was obtained in the BUSTER shots primarily because of a skip effect (abnormally low readings) occurring at a radius about equal to the height of burst. It is recommended that the Universal indicator mines with closer control be used in future atomic tests to study in detail the skip effect due to ground shock, terrain, and obstructions and that further studies be made on the mine as a peak pressure gage. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 14, 1952
Accession Number
AD0374623

Entities

People

  • R. D. Thurston
  • Thomas Bardeen

Organizations

  • United States Army Engineer Research and Development Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Anti-Tank Mines
  • Blast
  • Explosions
  • Explosives
  • Ground Zero
  • Height Of Burst
  • Measurement
  • Minefields
  • Munitions
  • Nuclear Energy
  • Nuclear Weapons
  • Ordnance Laboratories
  • Pressure Gages
  • Pressure Measurement
  • Scaling Laws
  • United States

Readers

  • Explosive Engineering.
  • Geodesy
  • Munitions and Ordnance Engineering