A review of the applications of through-the-Earth (TTE) communication systems for underground mines

Through-the-Earth (TTE) communication systems were developed to provide post-accident communication in underground mines. Unlike primary tracking systems, they do not require any major infrastructure installations underground. Instead, they use the Earth’s overburden as the medium or channel for the transmission of electromagnetic waves between surface and underground. Under ideal conditions, TTE communication systems should be able to provide full-duplex, two-way voice, text and data communication. However, this will depend on the design and optimization of the different types of TTE communication systems (that is, antenna and electrodes), and understanding of the rock properties and their influence on the transmission of signals. This can help simulate and model the transmission efficiencies and predict the possible range and data rates. Being able to optimize the performances of these systems can enhance rescue missions, improving the chances of saving trapped miners, and ultimately reduce fatality rates across the mining industry.