Compatibility and Decontamination of High-Density Polyethylene Exposed to Sulfur Mustard
Abstract
The Environmental Monitoring Laboratories, in cooperation with the Chemical Operations Branch of the U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) Directorate of Program Integration (DPI), conducted a multi-week study to determine the compatibility of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with liquid mustard (HD) material and decontamination of HDPE when exposed to HD. In Part I of the experiment, we tested the compatibility of HD with HDPE to determine the amount of HD adhered or adsorbed onto the material and to observe any physical degradation of the material when exposed to HD over time. In Part II of the experiment, we evaluated the ability of HDPE to be decontaminated after it had been in contact with HD for short and extended periods of time. Both parts of this experiment will be used to determine the feasibility of utilizing HDPE in the construction of universal munition storage containers for leaking and nonleaking HD munitions until their eventual neutralization in the Explosive Destruction System.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA600214
Entities
People
- Brandon E. Dusick
- John L. Schwarz
- Nancy K. Pusey
Organizations
- Edgewood Chemical Biological Center