Recent developments in formulating model descriptors for subsurface transformation and sorption of TNT, RDX, and HMX. Final report
Subsurface contamination with 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 2,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), and oxyhydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro- 1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) is a problem at military installations where these explosives were manufactured or used in loading munitions. Recent laboratory batch and column studies conducted to identify processes affecting subsurface transport of TNT, RDX, and HMX provide new information on the relative significance of transformation and sorption for these explosives and yield estimates of key process descriptors. This report assesses the current state of knowledge regarding subsurface transformation and sorption of TNT, RDX, and HMX, provides estimates for subsurface transport descriptors, and recommends further research. Transformation and sorption are important processes in the subsurface transport of TNT, RDX, and HMX. Measurement of transformation products has provided unequivocal evidence of TNT transformation. Research has also indicated that RDX and HMX are affected by subsurface transformations, but RDX and HMX transformation products have not been measured due to lack of chemical analytical capability. The order to magnitude of transformation is TNT >> RDX approx equal to HMX, and the order of magnitude of sorption in TNT > HMX > RDX.
- Research Organization:
- Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 270123
- Report Number(s):
- AD-A--305176/0/XAB; WES/TR/IRRP--96-1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Biodegradation of explosives using a known herbicide degrader
Database assessment of the health and environmental effects of munition production waste products. Final report