The contribution of geophysics to landmine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) detection: Case study in the Egyptian environment

Abstract: Landmines are essentially tactical and operational weapons that cause most widespread calamities, transcend humanitarian and sociological concerns, and bring severe environmental, economic and development problems. Worldwide, it is not known exactly how many landmines were planted and where these mines are located. Detecting mines with standard metal detectors is difficult as many are comprised primarily of plastic, with often only a firing pin as the sole metallic component. In this chapter, we describe the contribution of geophysical techniques specifically, electromagnetic metal detector (MD), ground penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity imaging scheme for detecting environmental clutters such as landmines, unexploded ordnance (UXO) and waste disposals. In addition, details about tests we carried out in Egypt using these techniques are discussed.

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