Abstract: Disclosed are stable zero-valent metal and oxidized black carbon admixtures and their use, to catalyze rapid reductive degradation reactions in aqueous solutions. The compositions and remediation methods are used in the non-explosive neutralization and decomposition of ammonium nitrate.

Abstract: A Munitions and Ordnance Remediation Blanket (MORB) includes: an impermeable outer layer made of plastic or similar fiber; a Commercial blasting mat layer; a MUNIREM reagent in powder or solution layering acting as an instant explosives neutralization reagent; and a commercial water-soluble seal on the opposing outer layer. Using a Munitions and Ordnance Remediation Blanket (MORB) includes the steps of: locating an underwater UXO; exposing the MORB to the unexploded ordnance fillers using one or more breaching mechanisms; enclosing the breached/decaying/leaching point source emitter with the MORB; anchoring the MORB to the seafloor or a sturdy fixture which allows water to permeate the water soluble cover material to dissolve membrane and create contact between energetics, reagent, and water; leaving the MORB in place for the reaction to proceed to completion; and recovering the metal casing for recycling.

Abstract: A device and method for the destruction of commercial explosives, improvised explosive devices (IED) and military grade weapons, particularly weapons with fragmentary and shrapnel ejection during detonation. The device is a multi-layer blanket with an impermeable first outer layer made of plastic or similar fiber. A blasting mat is located adjacent to the impermeable outermost layer for the containment of fragmentary and shrapnel ejection, should a detonation occur. One or more neutralization reagents are located between the blasting mat layer and a second, water-soluble seal, acting as an opposing outer layer. The versatile neutralization reagent(s) are released and rapidly react with the explosive fillers of breached munitions and similar devices when the water-soluble seal contacts water, while the outermost plastic layer isolates the neutralization reagents against the explosive item during the neutralization process and the blast mat provides protection in the event of an unexpected detonation.

Abstract: A Munitions and Ordnance Remediation Blanket (MORB) includes: an impermeable outer layer made of plastic or similar fiber; a Commercial blasting mat layer; a MUNIREM reagent in powder or solution layering acting as an instant explosives neutralization reagent; and a commercial water-soluble seal on the opposing outer layer. Using a Munitions and Ordnance Remediation Blanket (MORB) includes the steps of: locating an underwater UXO; exposing the MORB to the unexploded ordnance fillers using one or more breaching mechanisms; enclosing the breached/decaying/leaching point source emitter with the MORB; anchoring the MORB to the seafloor or a sturdy fixture which allows water to permeate the water soluble cover material to dissolve membrane and create contact between energetics, reagent, and water; leaving the MORB in place for the reaction to proceed to completion; and recovering the metal casing for recycling.

Abstract: Nitrocellulose propellants and plasticized military munitions, equipment, or contaminated soil are placed in a suitable container. A first option consists of adding a strong base to plasticized munitions in a container or militarization/demilitarization equipment or soil containing plasticized munitions or nitrocellulose propellant; adding an organic solvent; and then adding water to mixture. Alternatively, a second option consists of adding organic co-solvent to plasticized munitions in a container or soil containing plasticized munitions or solid nitrocellulose propellant. A strong base is added to mixture and allowed to react. When the reaction stops or is completed, a sulfur based bulk reductant is added to degrade all nitro and amino compounds. The organic solvent is evaporated and recovered for reuse and water is added to the container to make up for the evaporated organic solvent. If pH is higher than 8.5, a suitable acid is added to drop the pH to near neutral.

Abstract: Nitrocellulose propellants and plasticized military munitions, equipment, or contaminated soil are placed in a suitable container. A first option consists of adding a strong base to plasticized munitions in a container or militarization/demilitarization equipment or soil containing plasticized munitions or nitrocellulose propellant; adding an organic solvent; and then adding water to mixture. Alternatively, a second option consists of adding organic co-solvent to plasticized munitions in a container or soil containing plasticized munitions or solid nitrocellulose propellant. A strong base is added to mixture and allowed to react. When the reaction stops or is completed, a sulfur based bulk reductant is added to degrade all nitro and amino compounds. The organic solvent is evaporated and recovered for reuse and water is added to the container to make up for the evaporated organic solvent. If pH is higher than 8.5, a suitable acid is added to drop the pH to near neutral.

Abstract: Method for cleaning metals and organic solvents adsorbed to tissues. Soiled tissues are placed into a container or specially designed collection and cleaning container. An aqueous reagent formulation solution, not to exceed 15% of reagent in water on mass-mass basis is prepared. The required concentration of reagent as a function of the type and level of contamination of the tissues and the contaminants of concern to be cleaned is determined. The reagent solution of desired concentration to the soiled tissues in the container is then added. The dissolved reagent and soiled tissues are mechanically mixed to create intimate contact at ambient or above ambient temperatures. The container is sealed allowing the cleaning to occur for a period of time. Testing for metals and organics solvents are performed to confirm that the metals are stabilized/immobilized and the volatile organics are degraded. The tissues are then dried for reuse, recycling, or disposal.