Optimization of Composting for Explosives Contaminated Soil
- 30 September 1991
- report
- Published by Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC)
Abstract
A composting optimization field study for explosives contaminated soil was conducted at the Umatilla Army Depot Activity (UMDA) in order to maximize the quantity of soil treated per unit time. Different amendments and soil loading levels were investigated in mechanically agitated and static pile reactors. In addition to the removal of TNT, RDX, and HMX, compost moisture, temperature, and pH were monitored. Toxicity reduction was monitored, using the same samples analyzed by WESTON, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. All three explosives were significantly degraded. Degradation dropped as soil loading increased from 30 to 40 volume percent in each reactor type. More effective degradation was achieved in the mechanically agitated reactor than in the static pile reactors. Amendment composition affected degradation rate and extent, as well as operating parameters such as pH.Keywords
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