Integrated geophysical approach to the detection of buried objects and clandestine tunnels

James W. Allen

doi:10.1117/12.138104

28 August 1992 Integrated geophysical approach to the detection of buried objects and clandestine tunnels

James W. Allen

Proceedings Volume 1693, Surveillance Technologies II; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138104
Event: Aerospace Sensing, 1992, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

A planned and integrated geophysical approach, using all available data, has proven effective in detecting shallow tunnels and buried objects in different geological environments. Elements of the integrated approach included information from intelligence, historical reviews, computer modelling, and multiple geophysical survey methods. The use of the integrated approach resulted in a higher rate of success in detecting tunnels and small objects at shallow depths; however, no single survey technique has been universally effective. Several different survey methods were used to determine specific characteristics of a potential target. Magnetic sensors detected ferromagnetic materials used in tunnel construction. Analyses of the magnetic anomaly characteristics and the surface patterns of the anomalies indicated the depth and path of the tunnel. Tunnels were also detected by intrinsic parameters of observed electromagnetic anomalies and the surface patterns of instrument responses. Both methods have successfully differentiated materials used in tunnel construction and operational support systems from surface features such as utility or sewer lines. Cross-borehole radar was used to confirm the existence of a deep tunnel through crystalline rock in the southern part of the Demilitarized Zone in the Republic of Korea. Additional indications of tunnels were obtained from analyses of migrated seismic compression waves (P-waves) collected by a vertical stack, common- midpoint method. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and magnetic and EM sensors were effective in detecting shallow-depth caches constructed of various materials.

Citation Download Citation

James W. Allen "Integrated geophysical approach to the detection of buried objects and clandestine tunnels", Proc. SPIE 1693, Surveillance Technologies II, (28 August 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138104

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available