Analysis of Aerosols Produced During Tests of Tungsten Alloy Kinetic Energy Penetrators
Abstract
Kinetic energy (KE) penetrators made with tungsten alloys have historically been assumed to be relatively benign and to pose no health or environmental risks. No actual test data has ever been recorded to support this assumption. The assumption is based on the belief that, though a heavy metal, the tungsten constituent of the alloy is non-toxic. However, the presence of two toxic metals, nickel and cobalt, although in relatively small proportions, raises issues about the possible risks that may be associated with (a) inhalation of aerosols and (b) ingestion of the metals once they are introduced into the food chain. This study was designed to characterize the sizes and shapes of tungsten alloy aerosol particles and fragments ejected from penetration tunnels during performance tests of KE penetrators. Special attention was directed to the elemental composition of particles in the respirable size range, the fraction of the aerosol most likely to reach the gas exchange region in the lungs. Dust particles and fragments were also examined in anticipation of performing solubility tests on the residues.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA331720
Entities
People
- Kenneth Gold
Organizations
- United States Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center