Modeling Thermal, Moisture, Dielectric, and Electromagnetic Signatures for Landmine Detection
Abstract
The goal of this research project has been to develop simple models for the evaluation of the physics of different soil-mine-sensor systems. Our radar model requires as input: soil texture, water content, bulk density, particle density, and the depth of mine. Radar landmine sensors work well with nonmetallic mines in wet sand and silt soils and in dry clay soils whereas metallic mines are best detected in dry soils. Unfortunately, soil conditions can change over short distances. Therefore, a countermine specialist faces the considerable challenge of determining whether soil conditions are suitable for radar mine detection or are not suitable. In this project we also have simulated three-dimensional soil temperature distribution around landmines. At two times during each 24 hour period the thermal signature is at its maximum strength. Unfortunately, the time of appearance of the strongest thermal signature depends on soil texture, soil water content, and depth of the mine which makes it impossible to exactly predict at what time of the day it will occur. Therefore, a thermal infrared sensor will only give reliable mine detection information when used at the same location for at least six to twelve hours.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 16, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA413522
Entities
People
- Brian Borchers
- Jan M. H. Hendrickx
Organizations
- New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology