Unexploded ordnance (UXO) are military munitions that were fired or used but failed to function as intended and may still be dangerous. Discarded military munitions (DMM) are munitions that were abandoned without being used or fired and may also pose a safety risk. Both unexploded ordnance and discarded military munitions can be found at former military training ranges and munitions facilities. During munitions response, teams may use geophysical sensors and data analysis to help determine whether buried metal objects are likely to be munitions or harmless items before excavation.

These three fact sheets provide an easy to understand introduction to geophysical classification and how it can be used during munitions response. The Geophysical Classification for Munitions Response: Introductory Fact Sheet (GCMR-1, 2012) explains the background of munitions response, limitations of traditional detection methods, and advances in geophysical classification. More detailed information about the technology, data collection, analysis, and technical considerations involved in using geophysical classification can be found in the Geophysical Classification for Munitions Response: Technical Fact Sheet (GCMR-1, 2013). The Geophysical Classification for Munitions Response: Regulatory Fact Sheet (GCMR-1, 2014) explains the benefits and limitations of geophysical classification along with information to evaluate its use.

This resource was updated by the Geophysical Classification for Munitions Response (GCMR-2, 2015) guidance, which explains in greater depth how geophysical classification works, when it is most effective, and the factors that can limit its use. Also, the current Underwater Munitions Team is working to develop related guidance on the detection, classification, recovery, and disposal of underwater munitions and explosives of concern.

Topic(s): Advanced Site Characterization, Geophysical Methods, Munitions Response, Site Characterization, Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)