Interactions of Liquid Propellant/LP XM46 With Soils
Abstract
Development of an effective spill response plan for liquid propellant/LP XM46 (LP) required an understanding of the potential interactions between soil and the propellant. Studies were designed to characterize potential hazards of initial contact of LP with soil, runoff, infiltration, transport and sorption rates of spilled LP, and effects of LP on soil microflora. An analytical method for determining LP components in soils and water was also developed. Initial contact of LP with soil resulted in LP decomposition which was often visible, but not violent. No noxious gases were detected. Soil pH dropped and nitrate/nitrite-nitrogen increased significantly. Runoff and infiltration rates of LP in soils approximated those of water. Contact with LP mimicked the effects of 1.0N nitric acid on soil microflora; the soil was sterilized within 1 hour of contact. Two of the greatest potential environmental hazards of LP spills are low soil pH and leaching of nitrate to groundwater. Analytical methods, Soil microbiology, Liquid propellant, Soil sorption.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA285194
Entities
People
- Cynthia B. Price
- Donald W. Rathburn
- Douglas Gunnison
- Judith C. Pennington
- Tommy E. Myers