Development of Novel Decontamination and Inerting Techniques for Explosives Contaminated Facilities. Phase 1. Identification and Evaluation of Novel Decontamination Concepts. Volume 1

Abstract : Study identified and evaluated novel methods for the decontamination and inerting of facilities (buildings and equipment) contaminated with explosives during manufacturing or demilitarization. First step entailed review of literature and industrial survey followed by idea generation and detailed concept development. In the second step, criteria to evaluate the concepts were developed and covered, Mass Transfer, Destruction Efficiency, Safety, Damage to Buildings, Penetration Depth, Applicability to Complex Surfaces, Operating Costs, Capital Costs and Waste Treatment Costs. Thirdly these criteria were used to select promising concepts from about 55 concepts for evaluation in a follow on laboratory evaluation. Concepts recommended for experimental evaluation in the second phase of the program were hot gases, vapor circulation, and chemical methods involving radical or base initiated decomposition and the use of reductants such as sulfide or borohydride ions. Solubilization of explosives will be an important aspect in the development of chemical methods.