EGP Test Report and Proposal: MR-201611 - Underwater UXO Neutralization by Explosively Generated Plasma
Abstract
Navy explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technicians require environmentally acceptable remediation techniques for underwater ordnance disposal where unexploded ordnance (UXO) cannot be moved to the surface and rendered safe. The current protocol calls for a blow-in-place (BIP) procedure where an explosive charge is utilized to detonate the UXO in place, adding to the net explosive weight of the UXO. During a typical BIP procedure, the resulting shockwave and bubble formation/collapse from the detonation of the UXO and BIP charge introduces pressures and acoustic noise that is detrimental to marine life. Therefore, a method is needed that serves to neutralize the UXO with minimal environmental impact (no detonation). This effort demonstrated the phenomena of explosively-generated plasma (EGP) technology for the remediation of underwater UXOs. It was shown that a drastically smaller explosive charge could be used to initiate a "low order" response for the UXO and significantly reduce the pressure and impulse seen by marine life.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1135316
Entities
People
- Samuel Emery
- Thomas A. Douglas
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division