The Ministry of Defense tested modern environmental monitoring tools after demining operations. The study was conducted at the training and testing grounds of the UTTC complex, where modern demining equipment was recently demonstrated.
The inspection, using the MX908 mass spectrometer and Raman Serstech Arx spectrometer, was carried out by specialists from the Joint Center of Excellence for Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety. After analyzing the chemical state of the soil, military ecologists found no traces of explosives, confirming the effectiveness of mechanized demining machines and their minimal environmental impact.
However, at the site of a controlled explosive demonstration, post-explosion TNT residues were detected.
“Such studies not only confirm the absence of explosive devices but also ensure soil environmental safety. This is crucial for clearing agricultural lands and supports the safe cultivation of crops,” said Colonel Yuriy Sytnyk, head of the Environmental Safety Department of the Main Directorate for Mine Action, Civil Protection, and Environmental Safety.
Going forward, this approach could form the basis for developing national standards for demining quality control, especially in agricultural regions affected by hostilities.
Background:
-
The MX908 is a multi-purpose portable mass spectrometer used to detect and identify chemical substances in real time. It will be used by military ecologists to detect chemical and explosive materials.
-
The Raman Serstech Arx analyzer can identify over 2,200 chemical substances in real time. Its database includes military, industrial, and homemade explosives; precursors and oxidizers; toxic and hazardous materials; and chemical warfare agents such as blister, nerve, choking, and hemotoxic agents.
