US researchers discover hidden tunnels with underground sound waves

US researchers discover hidden tunnels with underground sound waves

Researchers in the US have recently demonstrated a new way to detect hidden underground tunnels by transmitting acoustic signals from beneath the target instead of above it. Led by Mike Kass, PhD, a researcher at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Tennessee, the team tested the new technique during a field experiment at the facility’s campus. They were able to identify concealed underground structures that threaten roads, railways, and othe…

Underground acoustic signals reveal hidden tunnels

For decades, engineers have searched for underground tunnels by sending signals from the surface downward—an approach that can miss what lies below. By reversing that approach, researchers at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have demonstrated a method to reveal hidden underground structures using acoustic signals generated below ground.