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Title: Waste retrieval sluicing system vapor sampling and analysis plan for evaluation of organic emissions, process test phase III.

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/782330· OSTI ID:782330

This sampling and analysis plan identifies characterization objectives pertaining to sample collection, laboratory analytical evaluation, and reporting requirements for vapor samples obtained to address vapor issues related to the sluicing of tank 241-C-106. Sampling will be performed in accordance with Waste Retrieval Sluicing System Emissions Collection Phase III (Jones 1999) and Process Test Plan Phase III, Waste Retrieval Sluicing System Emissions Collection (Powers 1999). Analytical requirements include those specified in Request for Ecology Concurrence on Draft Strategy/Path Forward to Address Concerns Regarding Organic Emissions from C-106 Sluicing Activities (Peterson 1998). The Waste Retrieval Sluicing System was installed to retrieve and transfer high-heat sludge from tank 241-C-106 to tank 241-AY-102, which is designed for high-heat waste storage. During initial sluicing of tank 241-C-106 in November 1998, operations were halted due to detection of unexpected high volatile organic compounds in emissions that exceeded regulatory permit limits. Several workers also reported smelling sharp odors and throat irritation. Vapor grab samples from the 296-C-006 ventilation system were taken as soon as possible after detection; the analyses indicated that volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds were present. In December 1998, a process test (phase I) was conducted in which the pumps in tanks 241-C-106 and 241-AY-102 were operated and vapor samples obtained to determine constituents that may be present during active sluicing of tank 241-C-106. The process test was suspended when a jumper leak was detected. On March 7, 1999, phase I1 of the process test was performed; the sluicing system was operated for approximately 7 hours and was ended using the controlled shutdown method when the allowable amount of solids were transferred to 241-AY-102. The phase II test was successful, however, further testing is required to obtain vapor samples at higher emission levels and to demonstrate control of the VOC below acceptable limits during the different modes of sluicing. A goal of phase III of the process test will be to obtain representative vapor samples at higher concentrations than those achieved in phase I and phase I1 of the process test. During phase III of the process test, vapor samples will be obtained from the 296-C-006 ventilation system stack. Ambient air samples will also be obtained at two locations within 241-C Tank Farm. Results will be used to address the following: (1) Provide gas composition data that can be used to determine personnel protective measures, (2) Provide gas composition data that can be used for control equipment selection and design, if required, and (3) Substantiate that ammonia and organic emissions are below regulatory thresholds during the test.

Research Organization:
Hanford Site (HNF), Richland, WA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
US DOE Office of Environmental Management (US)
DOE Contract Number:
AC06-96RL13200
OSTI ID:
782330
Report Number(s):
HNF-4212-REV0; TRN: US0203140
Resource Relation:
Other Information: PBD: 19 May 1999
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English