Abstract: The use of backscattered x-rays to image buried land miens and distinguish between surface and buried features has been well documented. Laboratory imaging experiments, being conducted at Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico, have been used to develop preliminary data acquisition hardware and software for an upcoming advanced technology demonstration (ATD). In addition image processing techniques, developed by the Department of Nuclear Engineering at the University of Florida, are utilized. Previous buried land mine imaging studies focused on antitank mines buried in screened sand and have included well defined surface features such as a board or a small diameter rock. In the present study we have examined imaging under a variety of practical environmental conditions. We have successfully imaged antitank miens (ATM) buried in sand and rocky New Mexico soil. Images have been obtained for bare surfaces as well as four surfaces covered with limestone road coarse base, snow, water, and native grass. In addition, we have imaged buried ATM and surface antipersonnel mines covered with debris consisting of various size rocks, a log, and leaves such that no mine was visible to the eye. Contour plots of the images obtained for the various environmental conditions are presented. !2
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