Composting of Nitrocellulose Fines, Regulatory and Logistical Feasibility RAAP Installation, Position Paper.
Abstract
The production of nitrocellulose for munitions purposes results in the production of nitrocellulose fines (NC fines) RAAP currently produces approximately 1,250 lbs/day of NC fines (dry basis). Composting has been evaluated as a means of managing these fines and yielding a nonreactive beneficial soil amendment. This paper summarizes the logistical and regulatory feasibility of the following end-use options for the compost: (1) land application (with harvesting) by the installation; (2) providing local farmers with compost as a soil amendment; (3) land application of finished compost to reclaim land that mining operations have disturbed; and (4) disposal at a landfill. All options were found to be feasible with regard to regulatory constraints. Because finished NC compost is not specified in federal or Virginia State regulations for solid waste, the nonhazardous nature of the compost needs to be assured through demonstration of nonreactivity and/or chemical content determination. Based on predicted application rates, the anticipated 450 tons/year of compost would require approximately 320 acres/year of land. Based on preliminary site selection criteria, these land requirements appear to be achievable. Total costs per ton of compost (including disposal) range from $1,005/ton to $1,200/ton.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA311098
Entities
People
- J. M. Savage
- L. H. Myers
- W. L. Lowe
Organizations
- Weston Solutions (United States)