Publications Details

Prototype Borehole Directional Radar System

Chang, Hsi-Tien

This report summarizes the progress of the Borehole Directional Radar (BDR) System, which is a high-power, high-resolution tool that is being developed to locate lithologic layers or fractures away from a wellbore. The key to the tool's potential is its ability to accurately measure distance and direction of a lithologic discontinuity underground. The results of two field tests in 1988 are presented. The report also discusses the deficiencies of the current system, and a proposed upgrade. Finally, possible other applications of the BDR System are outlined, including (1) locating gas and oil reservoirs below a salt dome, (2) determining the integrity of underground structures (e.g., Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Nuclear Waste Repository Site), and (3) verifying underground nuclear tests. 25 refs., 14 figs.