GB-Swindon: UKRI-1361 CALS Cavity Scanner

The C-ALS is specifically designed to be rugged and waterproof and is therefore perfect for working in underground environments such as the Boulby mine. STFC require the machine to fit in standard geological boreholes above 75 mm in diameter. The laser scanning system will quickly provide, reliable, high resolution three dimensional images of cavities underground. A fully integrated gyro gives a an accurate location of the scanner so stitching together of several scans is possible. A fully detailed 3D model is subsequently produced in the software, which is also provided as part of the purchase. Also included is a rugged laptop to run the software on whilst working underground.

3D models of cavities which have been formed at the base of a series of boreholes drilled at the Boulby Underground Laboratory are required, this research is aimed at understanding the processes and controls on cavity formation in halite. Such knowledge is valuable to multiple end users such as gas storage, Compressed Air Energy Storage, Hydrogen storage and hazardous waste disposal.