Uptake of explosives from contaminated soil by existing vegetation at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant

U.S. Army

HERO ID

1503124

Reference Type

Technical Report

Year

1995

HERO ID 1503124
Year 1995
Title Uptake of explosives from contaminated soil by existing vegetation at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant
Authors U.S. Army
Abstract This study examines the uptake of explosives by existing vegetation growing in soils contaminated with 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in three areas at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant (IAAP). To determine explosives uptake under natural environmental conditions, existing plant materials and soil from the root zone were sampled at different locations in each area, and plant materials were separated by species. Standard methods were used to determine the concentrations of explosives, their derivatives, and metabolites in the soil samples. Plant materials were also analyzed. The compound TNT was not detected in the aboveground portion of plants, and vegetation growing on TNT-contaminated soils is not considered a health hazard. However, soil and plant roots may contain TNT degradation products that may be toxic; hence, their consumption is not advised. The compound RDX was found in the tops and roots of plants growing on RDX-contaminated soils at all surveyed sites. Although RDX is not a listed carcinogen, several of its potentially present degradation products are carcinogens. Therefore, the consumption of any plant tissues growing on RDX-contaminated sites should be considered a potential health hazard. pg10. JMD
Report Number ADA296529
Is Certified Translation No
Dupe Override No
Is Public Yes
Keyword explosives, ammunition, contamination, tnt, degradation, hazards, health, growth(general), sites, army facilities, soils, surveys, plant growth, sampling, concentration(composition), standardization, separation, carcinogens, vegetation, rdx, iowa, metab