12 - UXO detection, clearance, and extraction

Abstract

This chapter emphasizes on locating, identifying, and remediating unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination. UXO is technically defined as an "explosive ordnance that has been primed, fused, armed, or otherwise prepared for action—and which has been fired, dropped, launched, projected, or placed in such a manner that it becomes hazardous to operations, installations, personnel, or materiel and remains unexploded either by malfunction, design, or for any other cause." The variety of unexploded ordnance and the extent of contamination pose a challenge that requires the development and application of advanced technology. This chapter emphasizes on locating, identifying, and remediating unexploded ordnance contamination. Although UXO is a worldwide problem, this chapter focuses on the problem as it relates to the Department of Defense (DOD) and Major Range and Test Facility Base (MRTFB). It also discusses difficulties associated with searching a surface for munitions waste contaminations that occur when surface or shallow buried hazards make a walking search, especially dangerous to a search team, and when the search area is large. This can be resolved by removing the requirement for personnel on the ground. This can be accomplished by developing platforms and instruments for aerial survey.