The detection of buried explosive hazards (BEH) remains a critical problem. Current combined sensing modalities, like electromagnetic induction and ground-penetrating radar, have demonstrated BEH detection capabilities, but are not optimal. TransTech proposes a novel combination of electromagnetic impedance spectroscopy and tomography for BEH detection and identification. Previous attempts to use electro-resistive techniques have required contact with the soil, or even insertion of rods into the soil, and thus have not proven field-ready. The proposed approach leverages TransTechs commercial non-contact soil sensing technology currently used to determine the density and moisture of soils using electromagnetic impedance spectroscopy. The proposed approach has the highest potential of meeting the extended needs of the Army, including greater than one meter depth detection, accommodating surface irregularities, and increasing the scanning speed above the current speeds. Finally, this approach has the potential to improve detection of BEH by more thoroughly characterizing the subsurface, hence increasing the probability of detection and reducing the number of false alarms as compared with competing technologies. The proposal team includes TransTech Systems, a leader in developing and commercializing impedance technology, coupled with Applied Research Associates, a recognized expert in BEH detection.
Keywords: Impedance Spectroscopy, Impedance Tomography, Buried Explosive Hazard Detection, Landmine Detection, Sensors, Demining
