DSHW-2008-002398 - 0901a0688013ee0a

May 21, 2008 ^^y 2 3 2GG8
8200-FY09-010
UTAH DIVISION OF
SOLID & HAZARDOUS WASTE & HLAZARDi
Dennis R. Downs ^*^ '^ '^^
Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste
Department of Environmental Quality
P. O. Box 144880
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4880
Attention: JeffVandel
Subject: ATK Launch Systems-Promontory, UTD009081357, Request for
Emergency Pennit to Make-Safe Tested Mortars
ATK Launch Systems-Promontory (ATK) is conducting mortar testing at T-75 for a
Department of Defense (DOD) contractor. This testing entails shooting slugs made of
various metals at mortars to determine if they will detonate. The tests are designed to
simulate the mortars being hit by metal fragments from bombs or other similar sources. If
the mortars do not detonate upon impact, they are considered unsafe to move, and must
be made-safe in place.
This test contract includes testing of 16 each 60 mm and 21 each 81 mm mortars. Each
mortar contains Comp B explosive which is made up of 59% TNT, 40% RDX and 1%
wax. The 60 mm mortars each contain 1 lb of Comp B, and the 81 mm contains 1.5 lbs.
Our first test shot did not cause the mortar to detonate. Therefore, ATK requests an
emergency permit to use a linear shaped charge (LSC) to render the mortar safe to
transport for proper disposal. This process is expected to either cause the mortar to
detonate and be destroyed, or spilt the mortar open, which will render it safe for transport,
treatment and proper disposal. ATK requests that this permit be valid for 30 days, which
will provide sufficient time to complete these tests, and make-safe additional mortars as
needed during the testing.
Ifyou have any question or need additional information, please contact Gene Curtis ofmy
staffat [phone].
Sincerely,
David P. Gosen, P.E.
Director, Environmental Services