Estimates of Radford AAP 31 May 1974 Accident Explosive Yield and Potential to Avoid Damage by Use of Suppressive Structures
Abstract
In this study, observed damage at the site and two independent analysis methods were used to estimate the explosive yield of the 31 May 1974 Radford Army Ammunition Plant TNT nitration and purification building accident. Results of these analyses indicate the explosive yield was equivalent to 8600 pounds of TNT. Based on this yield, if the building in which the accident occurred had been of the suppressive structure-type design, it is estimated that from 30% to at least 64% of the cost of the destruction could have been avoided. Further, use of suppressive structure-type design at all three of the Radford TNT nitration and purification buildings could have increased the potential cost savings to between 62% and 84% of the damage incurred by the 31 May 1974 accident. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA087766
Entities
People
- Donald F. Haskell
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory