Depleted uranium (DU) is used by the Department of Defense (DOD) in the development of major weapon systems because of its high density and superior mechanical properties, and because it is relatively abundant and cost effective. However, because it is low level radioactive and a toxic heavy metal, it has the potential to cause concern for the environment and safety of personal [stet]. U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center, (ATC) personnel are experienced in handling DU before, during, and after testing to include complete decontamination and disposal procedures.
ATC has established facilities and procedures to ensure complete compliance with all policies such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, and Clean Air Act and applicable regulations such as those from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
To meet the challenge of testing under realistic conditions while protecting the environment, ATC utilizes a scientifically advanced containment facility. The facility, Superbox, is a state-of-the-art containment fixture capable of withstanding detonations of a 100 lb TNT blast equivalency. This facility can be used to test targets varying from armor plates to a fully loaded combat vehicle. For added flexibility, munitions can be either fired dynamically or statically detonated. The 84 foot diameter vessel protects the environment by containing potential contaminants that are generated either from munitions containing DU impacting on targets, or from the the impact of munitions on targets that contain DU for enhanced survivability. The advanced instrumentation center analyzes the air quality in the vessel to determine when it is safe to open the sealed door and allow workers to enter and examine the target. There is a four inch thick steel fragmentation shield inside the vessel to ensure no fragments penetrate the vessel walls. Through this facility, Superbox, ATC is prepared to meet all customers' testing needs regarding depleted uranium or other such potentially contaminating materials. Our steadfast commitment is to customer service and satisfaction, protection of the environment, and strict adherence to all DOD, federal, state, and local regulations....
For more information contact:
Commander
U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center
ATTN: STEAC-SL-M
Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21005-5059