Accession Number:

ADA341157

Title:

Exposure to the Atmosphere of Gunpowder Cases II.

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

PRINS MAURITS LABORATORIUM TNO RIJSWIJK(NETHERLANDS)

Personal Author(s):

• Eerligh, R.
• Groeneveld, F. R.

Report Date:

1997-12-01

Pagination or Media Count:

23.0

Abstract:

During the control of boxes with cartridge bags complaints of headache were reported. In the atmosphere in the boxes concentrations of carbon monoxide of more than 1500 ppm were measured. These values are far above the TWA-value of 150 ppm for a 15 min exposure. After opening the boxes a dilution will take place. However, it is unknown how long the personnel is exposed to substantial carbon monoxide concentrations. The boxes should only be opened with sufficient ventilation. In the gas phase inside the boxes a lot of organic compounds in low concentrations could be identified. In the extracts of some components from the boxes cardboard, paper, felt, bag material the toxic compounds 2,4-dinitrotoluene a propellant component and pentachlorophenol were identified. It was advised to wear gloves during the unpacking of the boxes.

Descriptors:

• *EXPOSURE(GENERAL)
• *PROPELLANTS
• *AMMUNITION
• *ATMOSPHERES
• *CARTRIDGE CASES
• NETHERLANDS
• MATERIALS
• VENTILATION
• VAPOR PHASES
• BOXES
• LOW LEVEL
• ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
• CONCENTRATION(COMPOSITION)
• CARBON MONOXIDE
• DUTCH LANGUAGE
• GLOVES
• CONTROL PANELS
• BAGS
• NITROTOLUENES
• HEADACHES

Subject Categories:

• Ammunition and Explosives

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE