Chemical Characterization of the Pyrotechnically Disseminated M83-PE Smoke Grenades
Abstract
To reduce the possibility of flaming, the smoke formulation for the M83 smoke grenade has been modified by the addition of a bum retardant, pentaerythritol (PE). These M83-PE grenades were chemically characterized to qualitatively and quantitatively determine the combustion products produced with the addition of PE. Data was needed prior to material release and for incorporation into the item's Life Cycle Environmental Assessment (LCEA). Similar to other terephthalic acid (TA) based smokes, benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide were the principal compounds observed of toxicological concern. A comparison is made between the M83-PE and the M83 smoke grenades, which shows that benzene appears to be lower in the PE grenades; but, formaldehyde appears to be higher. All concentrations exceed the currently accepted American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values (TLV'S). Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels decreased between the M83 grenades and M83-PE grenades, whereas concentrations for sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides appeared to be unaffected. Analysis of the particle size data between the M83-PE and M83 grenades show that they both have MMAD's <3 micrometers. A majority of the particles are therefore respirable and can be deposited deep into the lung.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA416851
Entities
People
- Charles Crouse
- J. S. Anthony
- Kathy Matson
- Mark V. Haley
Organizations
- Edgewood Chemical Biological Center