Spinach may have the solution to the explosives disposal problem
Article Abstract:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's (PNNL) principal investigator Manish Shah reports that nitroreductase enzymes found in spinach has capability to neutralize about 500,000 tons of old explosives that are currently stored in the US. The enzymes when mixed with a sodium phosphate buffer solution could degrade the nitro groups in explosives. To activate the enzymes, about 10 to 50 millimoles of a reductant is added to the enzymes in an aqueous solution under ambient conditions. The process, which is part of a three-year project funded by the US Departments of Defense and Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, is currently undergoing further tests in PNNL.
Comment:
Nitroreductase enzymes found in spinach has capability to neutralize about 500,000 tons of old explosives stored in US
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0009-2460
Year: 1998
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Protect concrete from corrosion
Article Abstract:
Protecting concrete from corrosion entails a lot of things, but coatings must be considered an essential part of the strategy. Aside from finding a low-cost protection program that would suit one's needs, one should also take time to consider the right coating for the project. Coatings, such as epoxies, provide protection from compounds that essentially cause the degeneration of concrete. However, if not properly used, the desired protection outcome will not be achieved. Costly plant shutdowns due to maintenance of concrete will be also be avoided if risk, contractor skill and experience are also considered in the process of protecting concrete from corrosion.
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0009-2460
Year: 1998
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Accident report urges better safety training in explosives plants
Article Abstract:
A draft report by investigators into the accident at Sierra Chemical Co.'s facility in Mustang, NV, recommends more extensive training in explosives plants. Probers for the Chemical Safety Board note that employee training at the Sierra Chemical plant was performed predominantly in an informal, ineffective manner, with heavy reliance on on-the-job training. The facility, which produced PETN, TNT and Comp-B, was destroyed in January 1998, in an accident that killed four workers and injured three others. The event happened when an operator turned on a mixing-pot motor, resulting in the detonation of explosives that had solidified in the pot overnight.
Comment:
Draft report into the accident at company's facility in Mustang, NV, recommends more extensive training in explosives plants
Publication Name: Chemical Engineering
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0009-2460
Year: 1998
User Contributions:
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