Simultaneous Use of Elastic and Electromagnetic Waves

A hybrid technique has been developed that uses both electromagnetic and elastic waves in a synergistic manner to detect buried land mines. The system consists of a moving electromagnetic radar and a stationary elastic-wave source. The source generates elastic waves in the earth. These waves interact with the buried mine and cause both the mine and the earth to be displaced. Because the mechanical properties of the mine are different from those of the earth, the displacements in the region of interaction are distinct from those associated with the free-field propagation of the waves. The radar is used to detect these displacements and, thus, the mine. Initial investigations have demonstrated the feasibility of this scheme under controlled conditions. The current experimental effort is focused on understanding and overcoming the issues associated with using the system in field conditions.