Lead particle size and its association with firing conditions and range maintenance: implications for treatment |
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Authors: | Dimitris Dermatas Maria Chrysochoou |
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Institution: | (1) W. M. Keck Geoenvironmental Laboratory, Center for Environmental Systems, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA;(2) Polytechneiou Gamma 2, Ektenepol, Komotini, 69100, Greece |
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Abstract: | Six firing range soils were analyzed, representing different environments, firing conditions, and maintenance practices. The
particle size distribution and lead (Pb) concentration in each soil fraction were determined for samples obtained from the
backstop berms. The main factors that were found to influence Pb fragment size were the type of soil used to construct the
berms and the type of weapon fired. The firing of high velocity weapons, i.e., rifles, onto highly angular soils induced significant
fragmentation of the bullets and/or pulverization of the soil itself. This resulted in the accumulation of Pb in the finer
soil fractions and the spread of Pb contamination beyond the vicinity of the backstop berm. Conversely, the use of clay as
backstop and the use of low velocity pistols proved to be favorable for soil clean-up and range maintenance, since Pb was
mainly present as large metallic fragments that can be recovered by a simple screening process. Other factors that played
important roles in Pb particle size distribution were soil chemistry, firing distance, and maintenance practices, such as
the use of water spray for dust suppression and deflectors prior to impact. Overall, coarse Pb particles provide much easier
and more cost-effective maintenance, soil clean-up, and remediation via physical separation. Fine Pb particles release Pb
more easily, pose an airborne Pb hazard, and require the application of stabilization/solidification treatment methods. Thus,
to ensure sustainable firing range operations by means of cost-effective design, maintenance, and clean-up, especially when
high velocity weapons are used, the above mentioned factors should be carefully considered. |
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Keywords: | Firing ranges Lead Soil contamination Particle size distribution Remediation Clean-up Maintenance Treatment |
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