Abstract:

ESCALAD is a scanning landmine detector based on the principle of thermal neutron back scattering. It is sensitive to the hydrogen present in the explosives and in the plastic parts of the landmine. The method allows for fast scanning of an area and is insensitive to stones and metal debris which might be present in the ground. The detector can only be used on very dry soils and can therefore be used most advantageously in arid countries. The detector has been developed in cooperation between Egypt and the Netherlands and has been funded by the IAEA.

The most recent results will be presented from laboratory indoor tests in the specially built Delft test lane facility showing detection of dummy Anti-Tank and Anti-Personnel mines up to depths of 25 and 15 cm respectively.

Recently field tests were performed in Egypt with the ESCALAD system and with various other land mine detectors under more realistic conditions. The ESCALAD system was mounted on a specially designed trolley for these tests.