Development of a Relative Source Contribution Factor for Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX)
Abstract
There are few environmental regulations, standards, or guidance values for hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX). RDX is an explosive synthetic chemical which is not known to occur naturally. Available data suggest that exposure to RDX is not anticipated to be a national exposure concern and it has limited civilian uses. This report presents the development of a relative source contribution (RSC) factor for RDX. An RSC accounts for all sources and non-occupational exposures from RDX and apportions these amounts to each source. The application of the Exposure Decision Tree approach (subtraction method) recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was used to determine the RSC. A conceptual exposure model was utilized that identified the relevant potential sources for a highly exposed receptor proximate to an area where RDX was released. Potentially contaminated media include soil, groundwater, and surface water. Potential exposure pathways include ingestion of soil, water, and contaminated local crops and fish, dermal contact with soil and from water. These pathways are limited to areas that are in close proximity to current or former military bases where RDX may have been released into the environment. Given the physical/chemical properties and the available environmental occurrence data on RDX, there are adequate data to support a chemical-specific RSC term for RDX of at least 50% utilizing the USEPA process.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA517665
Entities
People
- Andrew Rak
- Bernard Gadagbui
- Jacqueline Patterson
- Raymond S. Kutzman