Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Detection Feasibility Study

MR-860

Objective

MR-860 Project Graphic

Proposed four-stage selectio hierarchy for UXO sensing.

The identification of UXO represents a substantial challenge to the effective cleanup of many DoD sites. The UXO problem is found on all categories of DoD sites:
Installation Restoration Program, Base Realignment and Closure, and Formerly Used Defense Sites.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the necessity for research and development in the field of unexploded ordnance (UXO) detection, if necessary, to develop a joint integrated research and development (6.1 through 6.3) strategy to meet identified DoD requirements. The scientific and technical state of the art for UXO identification will be reviewed and appropriate interfaces with technology demonstration and transfer organizations will be established. The study will initially examine and evaluate currently available and developmental UXO technology. Particular attention will be given to technological limitations and associated science and knowledge gaps. At a minimum, input will be solicited from organizations with substantial commitments to UXO detection systems development.

 A four phase investigation will be undertaken:

  • A Technical Advisory Panel will be formed to provide technical advise on the current state of the art for UXO identification development requirements. The committee will include representation from key DoD laboratories conducting research applicable to the UXO problem. A key input is expected from the Explosives Safety Board.
  • The American and international literature will be reviewed to ascertain the current status of UXO identification as documented through the open literature. The grey literature will also be reviewed as appropriate. It will include non-DoD agencies such as DOE, EPA, and industry.
  • Given the information ascertained in the efforts above paragraphs, assess the need for 6.1 through 6.3 research and development.
  • Develop an integrated technology development program (6.1-6.3) to fill the knowledge, science and technology gaps identified above and recommend SERDP investment strategy.

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Benefits

This work will provide DoD with an integrated research and development plan, potentially culminating in the fielding of advanced systems for identification of UXO. If deemed appropriate, the successful development and fielding of advanced UXO detection technologies offer the potential to generate vast savings to the DoD and accelerate site cleanup efforts. This work will significantly improve DoD's understanding of the policy, science, knowledge, and technology gaps affecting the development and fielding of efficient and reliable systems for UXO detection.

The scientific and technical state of the art for unexploded ordnance (UXO) identification will be reviewed and appropriate interfaces with technology demonstration and transfer organizations will be established.

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Project Documents

Points of Contact

Principal Investigator

Dr. John Cullinane

US Army Waterways Experiment Station

Phone: 601-634-3723

Fax: 601-634-2854

Program Manager

Munitions Response

SERDP and ESTCP

Project Documents

Document Types

  • Fact Sheet - Brief project summary with links to related documents and points of contact.
  • Final Report - Comprehensive report for every completed SERDP and ESTCP project that contains all technical results.
  • Cost & Performance Report - Overview of ESTCP demonstration activities, results, and conclusions, standardized to facilitate implementation decisions.
  • Technical Report - Additional interim reports, laboratory reports, demonstration reports, and technology survey reports.
  • Guidance - Instructional information on technical topics such as protocols and user’s guides.
  • Workshop Report - Summary of workshop discussion and findings.
  • Multimedia - On demand videos, animations, and webcasts highlighting featured initiatives or technologies.
  • Model/Software - Computer programs and applications available for download.
  • Database - Digitally organized collection of data available to search and access.