A survey of electromagnetic characteristics of soils in the Donbass region (Ukraine) for evaluation of the applicability of GPR and MD for landmine detection

In order to design holographic and impulse GPRs, as well as metal detector (MD) sensors for humanitarian demining in the Donbass conflict zone, we have compiled a listing of the AP and AT mines that have been confirmed in use in Donbass, and their dimensions and construction. Just as importantly, we have attempted, from existing literature (since it is an active war zone), to characterize the specific soils in this region in order to understand the physical property contrasts between mine casings/components and the soils in which they may be buried, as well as the propagation characteristics of radar signals in these soils. We conclude that MD should be generally effective for locating Donbass mines, and GPRs operating near the frequency of 2GHz should provide sufficient penetration for detection and, simultaneously, sufficient resolution to assist with discrimination of mines from clutter. As is common in GPR applications, the main limiting factor may be soil moisture content, so operations may be restricted to dry periods or seasons. Field measurements are scheduled to confirm the values from the literature.