Unusual Contaminant in JP-4 Fuel Delivered to Fort Campbell, Fort Knox, and Tennessee Army National Guard.
Abstract
Many common types of debris were encountered during the course of a recent investigation to identify an unusual contaminant present in jet fuel (JP-4) at three Army locations. Most of the other debris were materials commonly found in fuel samples, e.g. metal flakes, rust, fibers, dirt, etc. Various analytical techniques used in this evaluation indicated that the unusual flake-like organic debris was probably a manmade (synthetic) organic component and not a fuel product. It had a high melting point (>200 C) and was insoluble in most common solvents. The physical appearance of the flakes (thin and flat while floating in the fluid) indicated that the material was originally formed or deposited in a thin layer prior to its introduction into the fuel. The most likely source of a material with these characteristics was an unpigmented paint or protective coating from one of the epoxy or similar resin families. Such a material could be introduced into the fuel by debonding or delamination of the contaminant from any handling, storage, or transportation equipment that contains such a coating. The elements, chemical bonds, and functional groups detected by the various analytical tests were consistent with this conclusion. The use of a light box for enhanced visual (Clean and Bright) evaluation is presented in this report. Also discussed is an approach for isolating similar debris (from fuel) to provide for scanning electron microscopic, Auger, and Electron Spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) evaluation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA163399
Entities
People
- J. G. Barbee
- K. B. Kohl
- L. L. Stavinoha
- R. S. Mcinnis
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute