Composting of Nitrocellulose Fines - Technical and Logistical Feasibility
Abstract
The U.S. Army Environmental Center (USAEC) is evaluating treatment options, such as composting, for residual solids, or fines, from the production of nitrocellulose (NC), a highly substituted cellulose fiber used as a propellant. Previous testing by USAEC indicated that low levels of NC in soils can be treated by composting. USAEC has recently conducted reactivity testing to evaluate levels of NC which can be safely incorporated into compost. This Technology Identification Report (TIR) reviews other technologies for the treatment of NC fines. A literature review was conducted to identify potentially applicable technologies for NC fines treatment. Treatment technologies potentially applicable to NC fines at present include thermal destruction (incineration or open burning), alkaline hydrolysis, supplemental fuel firing and composting. Thermal destruction has been most extensively used in the past. This approach may come under tighter regulatory control due to nitrogen emissions and disfavor of open burning. Alkaline hydrolysis has been known for a number of years, but this approach has not been fully developed. Supplemental fuel firing and composting have promise based upon laboratory pilot testing. Further development is required for either approach. Supplemental fuel methods need to address air emissions. For composting, requirements for disposal of the final residue must be evaluated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA427022
Entities
Organizations
- Weston Solutions (United States)