- Client:U.S. Department of Defense
- Site:Munitions Manufacturing Plant
- Date:Summer 2017
Situation
The 1,750-square-foot former TNR production building was slated for demolition/removal. TNR was manufactured in this structure until the 1970s, when the building was closed to further use. During the manufacturing process, TNR laden vapor permeated the building materials. The explosive vapor condensed and crystallized on the surfaces and interior of the wood frame walls and cracks. The crystal residue was determined to be an explosive shock hazard. Because Lead Styphnate was manufactured in a neighboring building, it was included among the potential explosives of concern. Due to the building’s explosive hazard risk and its proximity to other nearby active munition production buildings, the building was not a candidate for normal demolition. The ability to remove asbestos inside and out of the facility was precluded by the presence of explosives residues and the potential for explosion. Due to regulatory concern over the inability to meet safety requirements, the EPA and LCAAP commissioned an Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analysis (EE/CA) to identify a safer and cost-effective solution. The EE/CA and decontamination of Building 83 was performed by PIKA and MuniRem® Environmental (MRE).
Solution
Of the five technologies assessed by the EE/CA, MuniRem® was found to be the safest and most cost-effective solution for removing explosive hazards, enabling safe building demolition. The evaluation included bench and pilot tests at the Army’s ERDC lab in Vicksburg, Mississippi. At full scale, MuniRem® solution was sprayed on the building’s exterior and interior for surface decontamination, allowing safe removal of asbestos-contaminated materials. It was also applied to production vessels and pipes to neutralize accumulated explosives. Complete hazard removal was confirmed using EXPRAY and visual inspection. The building fixtures and concrete foundation were then safely demolished and disposed of as non-hazardous waste per Missouri and Federal regulations.
Result