Sensor evaluation study for use with towed arrays for UXO site characterization

The Naval Research Laboratory is developing a Multi-sensor Towed Array Detection System (MTADS) with support from the DOD Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP). In this effort we seek to extend and refine ordnance detection technology to more efficiently characterize OEW sites, identifying nonferrous and smaller items, distinguishing ordnance from clutter and analyzing clustered targets to identify and locate individual targets within complex target fields. Our evaluation shows that these goals are best met by combining magnetic and electromagnetic sensors. We report on field studies at a prepared test range of commercial sensors in arrays in various configurations and including; Cesium vapor magnetometers in single sensor and gradiometric configurations, fluxgate gradiometers, proton procession magnetometers, and electromagnetic pulsed induction sensors. The advantages and disadvantages of each technology and their applicability based upon survey requirements is discussed. We also discuss recommended data densities including horizontal sensor spacings, survey speeds, sensor heights and make recommendations about the appropriate use of gradiometers and active sensors.