Waste Acid Detoxification and Reclamation
Abstract
This Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) project demonstrated the Waste Acid Detoxification and Reclamation (WADR) system s ability to recover waste electropolish acid solutions generated during the manufacturing of gun-tubes, and reuse the clean acid. The WADR process uses vacuum distillation technology, an innovative technique in which waste acid is heated to remove water which is subsequently condensed. Additionally, the introduction of new advanced materials makes the WADR distillation process capable of cost-effectively treating high concentrations of waste acid while operating under harsh environments. Demonstration testing was performed during April and May 1997 (for a total of 16 batch operations) at the Watervliet Arsenal (WVA) in Watervliet, New York. The WADR system, as tested at WVA, was successful at purifying waste acid for reuse during gun-tube manufacturing. Additionally, secondary waste streams generated from the treatment process were accepted for disposal at the WVA s Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant (IWTP). Testing of the WADR system showed an potential savings of over $80,000 per year when compared to the traditional method of waste acid disposal and acid replacement. The WADR technology is now part of the standard manufacturing operations at the Watervliet Arsenal. Application at other Department of Defense (DoD) facilities may save an estimated $10 million per year, and allow the DoD to comply with new hazardous materials and pollution prevention regulations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA607453
Entities
People
- Philip Darcy