DSHW-2024-007144

ATTACHMENT 2

WASTE CHARACTERIZATION PLAN
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Contents

1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 2-2
2.0 Physical and Chemical Characterization [R315-264-13, UAC R315-270-14(b)(2] ............. 2-2
2.1 Definition of Reactive Hazardous Waste [UAC R315-261-23(a)] .................................. 2-2
2.2 Knowledge-Based Waste Characterization ..................................................................... 2-3
2.3 Physical Characterization ................................................................................................ 2-3
2.4 Waste Sources ................................................................................................................. 2-3
2.5 Chemical Characterization .............................................................................................. 2-4
2.6 Description and Classification of Military Explosives .................................................... 2-6
2.7 Characterization of Past Waste Treatment .................................................................... 2-
189
3.0 Waste Analysis Plan [R315-264-13(b) and (c) and R315-270-14(b)(3)] ............................ 2-20

Tables
Table 1 Chemical Composition of Explosives
Table 2 Military Explosive Compositions and Classifications
Table 3 MIDAS Families
Table 4 Constituent Subfamilies
Table 5 Department of Transportation Explosive Hazard Class Divisions

Figures
Figure 1 Items treated at the Thermal Treatment Unit from 2002 to 2022
Figure 2 Total annual net explosive weight of items treated at the Thermal
Treatment Unit from 2002 to 2022
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WASTE CHARACTERIZATION PLAN

1.0 Introduction

This attachment describes the hazardous wastes treated at the Utah Test and Training Range-
North (UTTR-North) Thermal Treatment Unit (TTU) and discusses the procedures to be
followed to ensure proper waste identification.

Reactive wastes have been treated at the UTTR-North TTU for over 30 years, under both
interim status and, since 2003, as a permitted treatment facility. Because of the wide variety
of potential wastes that can be treated at the facility and the inherent nature of excess military
munitions, a knowledge-based waste characterization approach has been utilized.

During permit development, while the facility was operating under interim status, an effort
was made to categorize munitions that could potentially be treated and to develop a database
that could be used to provide munition specific characterization data for items treated at the
TTU. A “Waste Characterization Technical Memorandum” and associated addenda from
Radian International described these efforts and were included in the 2003 Hazardous Waste
Operating Permit as “Attachment 2, Technical Memorandum, UTTR: Waste Characterization
Evaluation for the TTU.”

This revised attachment, entitled “Waste Characterization Plan,” contains the same
knowledge-based approach as the original version, but excludes discussion regarding the
development of a separate munitions database specifically for the UTTR. Instead, it
describes the knowledge-based characterization process and discusses the wastes that have
been historically treated at the UTTR.

2.0 Physical and Chemical Characterization [UAC R315-264-13 and
R315-270-14(b)(2)]

2.1 Definition of Reactive Hazardous Waste [UAC R315-261-23(a)]

Wastes treated at the UTTR-North TTU are hazardous by virtue of their characteristic
reactivity and are classified with the primary EPA Hazardous Waste Number of D003.
These wastes meet the definition of reactivity found in the UAC R315-261-23(a)(6)(8);
specifically, they are:

● Capable of detonation or explosive reaction if subjected to a strong
initiating source or if heated under confinement and/or

● A "forbidden explosive" as defined in 49 CFR 173.54 or a "Class 1
explosive" as defined in 49 CFR 173.50(b)(1), (2), or (3).
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2.2 Knowledge-Based Waste Characterization

Unlike traditional hazardous wastes generated during manufacturing or maintenance
processes, the reactive wastes treated at the TTU are most commonly contained in obsolete
items such as munitions or rocket motors. These items have been manufactured to exacting
tolerances and specifications and their physical characteristics and chemical constituents
have been well documented. This information may be obtained from manufacturers and
from the Department of Defense (DoD) and used for a knowledge-based waste
determination. The following data sources may be used to characterize reactive wastes
treated at the TTU:

● Manufacturer and DoD technical information documents
● Manufacturer material safety data sheets (MSDS)
● The DoD Munitions Items Disposition Action System (MIDAS) database
● Department of Transportation explosive classification [49 CFR 173.50]
Specific waste identification, characterization, and acceptance procedures are described in
Attachment 3.

2.3 Physical Characterization

The wastes treated at the TTU are generally physically intact unserviceable or obsolete
missile motors, munitions, or scrap propellant. Although it is possible that some off-
specification ordnance and propellant items may be treated at the TTU, their physical
components would be consistent with data presented in this section.

Waste munitions treated by OB/OD processes generally consist of an assortment of explosive
fill materials wholly contained in metal casings (brass, aluminum, or steel). Propellants (e.g.,
rocket motors) may be housed in non-metallic casings. The metal casing constitutes the
majority of the gross weight of a munition item, while the explosive filler is typically 20% to
40% of the gross weight. For example, the explosive component of a MK-82 500-lb general
purpose bomb is approximately 192 lb. This explosive filler weight is known as the net
explosive weight (NEW). In the case of missile motors, the most commonly treated items at
the TTU, the NEW of the propellant comprises the majority of the total weight of the item.

2.4 Waste Sources

Waste munitions treated at the TTU are generated either locally from storage facilities at the
UTTR, from Hill AFB, or received from other DoD installations or contractors under pre-
arrangement or under contract. Waste munitions include:
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● Rejected munitions and components that do not meet military specifications
(MILSPEC);

● Items that have exceeded their maximum intended “shelf-life”;

● Items that appear damaged or show evidence of deterioration and corrosion;

● Items declared surplus; and

● Waste material from propellant or munitions testing operations.

2.5 Chemical Characterization

Many types of fundamental chemical compounds are used in explosives formations: nitrates,
amines, aromatics, azides, and perchlorates. In addition, other chemical materials are used as
oxidizers and fuels (e.g., metals), binders, plasticizers, or processing aids. Although all these
materials are constituents of explosives, many of these compounds are not explosive, such as
sodium and potassium nitrate.

Table 1 provides a summary of explosive compositions that may be treated at the UTTR-
North TTU and their chemical formulas. Also shown are their EPA hazardous waste
numbers. Because the TTU treats military munitions for their reactivity, the primary
hazardous waste number is D003. As such, reactive constituents are present in all materials
being thermally treated. Ancillary hazardous waste numbers may also be applied to military
munitions items due to constituents such as lead (D008) that may be part of the explosive
material formulation. These compounds are subjected to the same TTU thermal treatment
process as the military munitions.
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Table 1
Chemical Composition of Explosives

Explosive

Chemical Formula
Primary
Hazardous
Waste No.
Ancillary
Hazardous
Waste No.a
Primary Explosives:
Diazodinitrophenol (DDNP) C6H2N4O5 D003 -
Lead azide N6Pb (71% Pb) D003 D008
Lead mononitroresorcinate (LMNR) C6H3O2Pb (57.5% Pb) D003 D008
Lead stephynate C6HN3O8Pb D003 D008
Mercury fulminateb C2HgN2O2 D003 P065c, D009
Potassium dinitrofuroxane (KDNBF) C6H2N4O6K D003 -
Tetracene C18H12 D003 -
Fuels:
Antimony sulfide Sb2S5 D003
Calcium silicide CaSi2 D003 D001
Lead thiocynate Pb(SCN)2(64% Pb) D003 D008
Oxidizers:
Ammonium perchlorate NH4ClO4 D003 -
Barium nitrate BaN2O6 D003 D005
Potassium chlorate KClO3 D003 -
Aliphatic Nitrate Esters:
1,1,1-Trimethylolethane trinitrate (TMETN) C5H9O9N3 D003 -
1,2,4-Butanetriol trinitrate (BTN) C4H7N3O9 D003
Diethyleneglycol dinitrate (DEGN) C4H8N2O7 D003 -
Nitrocellulose C12H16(ONO2)4O6 D003 -
Nitroglycerin C3H5N3O9 D003 P081c
Nitrostarch C6H1O5NO2 D003 -
Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) C5H8N4O12 D003 -
Triethylene glycodinitrate (TEGN) C6H12O4N2O4 D003 -
Nitramines:
2,4,6-Trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl) C7H5N5O5 D003 -
Cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX) C4H8N8O2 D003 -
Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) C3H6N6O6 D003 -
Ethylenediamine dinitrate (EDDN Haleite) C2H6N4O4 D003 -
Nitroguanidine CH4N4O2 D003 -
Nitroaromatics:
1,3 Diamine-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (DATB) C6H4N6O6 D003 -
1,3,5-Triamino-2,4,5-trinitrobenzene (TATB) C6H6N6O6 D003 -
2,2′4,4′6,6′-Hexanitroazobenzene (HNAB) C12N8O12 D003 -
2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT) C7H5N3O6 D003 -
Hexanitrostilbenzene (HNS) C12H2N6O12 D003 -
Ammonium nitrate NH4NO3 D003 -
Black powder K(Na)NO3 D003 -

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Table 1
(Continued)

Explosive

Chemical Formula
Primary
Hazardous
Waste No.
Ancillary
Hazardous
Waste No.a
Various compositions, including compositions A, B,
and C; ednatols; octols; tertylols; pentolite; tritonal;
picratol; amatol; ammonal; plastic bonded
explosives (PBX); minol; torpex; high blast
explosive (HBX); and dynamite (military)
Mixtures of the above
chemicals
D003 P081c
Propellants
Mixtures of nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, and
nitroguanidine (designated as M-series
propellants−single, double, and triple
base) May also include significant
quantities of ammonium perchlorate,
HMX, and aluminum powder.
Varies D003 P081c, D008
Pyrotechnics
Combinations of oxidizers, fuels, and binding
agents. Typical components:
● Oxidizers are peroxides and perchlorates;
● Fuels are aluminum and magnesium; and
● Binding agents are resins, waxes, plastics, oils,
retardants, waterproofing agents, and color
intensifiers.
Varies D003 -

aAdditional EPA hazardous waste numbers may be applied if technical data indicates the munition (explosive
and non-explosive components) contains hazardous constituents not listed here.
bMercury is no longer used to formulate military munitions.
cThe “P” listing is only applied if the material being treated is a pure “commercial chemical product or
manufacturing chemical intermediate.” It is not applied to finished munitions or propellants that contain
mercury fulminate or nitroglycerin. See 40CFR 261.33 for more information.

2.6 Description and Classification of Military Explosives

Various approaches are employed to categorize the thousands of explosives that may
potentially be treated at the TTU. Explosive compounds used in military munitions can be
put into four general categories: primary explosives, booster and secondary explosives,
propellants, and pyrotechnics. These categories are summarized as follows:

Primary Explosives: Primary explosives are used to initiate larger, less sensitive energetic
components. The rate of burn for these explosives is controlled to ensure excessive pressure
does not develop and that desired ballistic effects are achieved. Primary explosives are
mixtures that are very sensitive to shock or friction and are a mixture of fuel, oxidizer, and
explosive compounds. Typical fuels are antimony sulfide and lead thiocyanate; oxidizers
include barium nitrate and potassium nitrate. The primary initiators are lead azide and lead
styphnate.
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Booster and Secondary Explosives: Booster and secondary explosives evolve large
volumes of hot gas in a short time after initiation. These non-initiating explosives are too
insensitive to be initiated by means of impact, friction, or brief application of heat. These
explosives are primarily nitrates, nitro compounds, and nitramines. The most common high
explosives are cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX), trinitrotoluene (TNT),
trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl), cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX), and
various combinations of these compounds. High explosive ordnance may have waxes or
aluminum powder as additives.

Propellants: Propellants are low detonation rate explosives that generate large volumes of
hot gas over a longer period of time, creating a sustained pressure used to propel objects. The
propellant mixtures are typically classified as single- or double-based. Single-based
propellants are composed mainly of nitrocellulose, while double-based propellants are
mixtures of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin. The primary components of propellants treated
at the UTTR include ammonium perchlorate, HMX, and aluminum powder. A number of
miscellaneous chemical compounds are also added to the propellant charge to control
deflagration characteristics or to promote stability during storage. These additives include
various nitrated organic compounds, metals, and metal salts. All components of military
propellants are in solid form and contain no free liquids.

Pyrotechnics: Pyrotechnics generate large amounts of heat but much less gas than
propellants or explosives. Pyrotechnic compositions are generally finely divided fuels such
as metals, alloys, and hydrocarbons mixed with an oxidizer. Typical oxidizers consist of
metal nitrates, ammonium, or metal perchlorates, chlorates, and peroxides. Secondary
constituents also present in pyrotechnic mixtures are binders, ignition agents, retardants, and
colorants. Typical minor components include black powder, chlorinated organics, waxes,
sugar, asphalt, polyvinyl chloride, and vegetable oils.

Table 2 was developed based on these four general categories of military explosives. It
summarizes the major types of explosives and lists specific explosives for each type. Also
included in Table 2 are the designations used in the Munitions Items Disposition Action
System (MIDAS) database known as “MIDAS families.” These family designations are used
to categorize munitions by usage and constituent type in the MIDAS database, one of the
potential information sources for characterization of items treated at the TTU. The 34
MIDAS families are defined in Table 3. Items that are included in the IN (inert) or TA
(chemical munitions) MIDAS families are not treated at the TTU.

In addition to the MIDAS family designations, the last column of Table 2 presents the
constituent subfamily names developed to summarize and consolidate similar explosive
compounds. These subfamilies are based primarily on their main chemical constituents and
on the expected method of constituent breakdown during deflagration or detonation. For
example, since Composition A and Composition C explosives are blends of nitramines (i.e.,
RDX) and various binders and plasticizers, they are consolidated into the constituent
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subfamily Nitramine Blends. In cases where primary chemical types (e.g., nitramines and
nitroaromatics) are blended to create boosters or explosives, a subfamily was created to
represent this binary or ternary composition. In the case of military pyrotechnics, energetics
high in particulate loading were divided into two constituent families, one representing
energetics that typically burn due to oxidation, and a second representing energetics that
typically detonate after initiation by an initiating charge (primary explosive) or that
demonstrate almost instantaneous deflagration followed by detonation (e.g., photoflash
cartridges).

Based on this type of consolidation, 18 subfamilies were created to describe all munitions
used by the military and potentially treated at the TTU. A list of constituent subfamilies and
their descriptions is found in Table 4.

Finally, munitions may be categorized by their Department of Transportation explosive
hazard division (49 CFR 173.50). These divisions are listed in Table 5. This classification is
the primary indicator of whether an item will be treated by open detonation or open burning
at the TTU.

By utilizing the various categorization strategies that have been described, in conjunction
with manufacturer and DoD information sources, TTU operators can make decisions about
item safety and treatment methodologies. This information is also used to understand
potential chemical emissions and make decisions about what analytes should be included in
environmental sampling and analysis plans including the Waste Analysis Plan for Residue
and Ash (Attachment 3) and the Surface Water, Soil, and Groundwater Sampling and
Analysis Plans (Attachments 9A, 9B, and 15 respectively).

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Table 2
Military Explosive Compositions and Classifications
Explosive Types Description Example Compounds MIDAS Family Constituent Subfamily
Primary Explosives
Lead azide Salt of hydrazoic acid (initiator) Lead azide HZ, SC, SF Primary explosives compounds:
Mercury fulminate Salt of a fulminic or paracyanic
acid, used as initiator
● Mercury fulminate
● Lead azide
DDNP DADNP, used as initiator DDNP ● DDNP
Lead stephynate Anhydrous salt, used as primer Lead stephynate HA, HZ, SC, SF ● Lead stephynate
Tetracene Intermediate booster and primer
(rare)
Tetracene HA ● Tetracene
● Lead thiocynate
Primary compositions Initiators for HE, propellants,
and pyrotechnics
Consists of combinations of:
● Lead stephynate
● Tetracene
● Barium nitrate
● Antimony sulfide
● Aluminum
● Lead thiocynate
● Potassium chlorate
HA, SC, SF
Booster and Secondary Explosives
Nitramines N-type nitration where
nitrogroup is attached to a
nitrogen atom being nitrated
HMX, RDX, EDDN (Haleite), tetryl
(pyrolite, tetralite)
HA, HC, HE, HI,
HP, HR, HT, HX,
HZ, LR, SA, SF
Nitramines
Nitroaromatics C-types nitration where
nitrogroup is attached to a
carbon atom being nitrated
TATB, TNT HB, HC, HE, HG,
HR, HT, HX, HZ,
LR
Nitroaromatics
Aliphatic nitrate esters O-type nitration where
nitrogroup is attached to an
oxygen atom being nitrated
BTN, nitrocellulose (NC),
nitroglycerin (NG), PETN, TEGN,
TMETN, and DEGN
HR, HX, PB, PD,
SC, SF
Aliphatic nitrate esters
Binary compositions Composition C RDX/plasticizer HE, HX Nitramine blend
Composition A RDX/desensitizer HE, HI
Composition B RDX/TNT (60/40)
Others called Cyclotols
HE, HG, HP, HR,
HX, HZ, LR, SA,
SF
Nitroaromatic and nitramines
blend
Ednatols Haleite/TNT
Octols HMX/TNT HR, LR
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Table 2
(Continued)
Explosive Types Description Example Compounds MIDAS Family Constituent Subfamily
Booster and Secondary Explosives (cont.)
Binary compositions
(cont.)
Tetrytols TNT/Tetryl HX Nitroaromatic and nitramines
blend
Pentolite PETN/TNT PD Aliphatic nitrate ester and
Nitroaromatic blend
Tritonal TNT/flaked aluminum HB Nitroaromatic blends
Picratol Ammonium pictrate/TNT HD
Amatol Ammonium nitrate/TNT Ammonium nitrate blend
Ammonal Ammonium nitrate/aluminum with
TNT/DNT/RDX mixture

Plastic bonded explosives Water gel/slurry explosives Water gel/slurry explosives
Ternary compositions Minol Ammonium nitrate/TNT/aluminum
Anatex Ammonium nitrate/TNT/RDX
DBX (depth charges) Ammonium nitrate/TNT/RDX HH
High Blast Explosive (HBX) RDX/TNT/Aluminum HB, HD Nitroaromatic and nitramines
blend
Torpex RDX/TNT/Aluminum powder
PBX >% RDX/HMX/PETN with
polymeric binder
HE, HR, HT, LR Aliphatic nitrate ester and
nitramine blends
Quaternary compositions Dynamite Dynamite
Industrial explosives Mixtures of NC/NG/NQ to
achieve ballistic requirements
M-series, including:
● single-base
● double-base
● triple-base
● composite
● ball (modified double-base)
Not applicable Single base, double base,
triple base propellants

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1
0

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Table 2
(Continued)
Explosive Types Description Example Compounds MIDAS Family Constituent Subfamily
Propellants
Propellants Mixtures of NC/NG/NQ to
achieve ballistic requirements.
May also include significant
quantities of ammonium
perchlorate, HMX, and
aluminum powder.
M-series, including:
● single-base
● double-base
● triple-base
● composite
● ball (modified double base)
Single base
HI, PB, PC, SA
Double base
PB, PC, PD, SA
Triple base
PB, PC, SA, SC
Single base, double base,
triple base propellants
Pyrotechnics
Delays and fuzes Delays and fuzes Mixtures of oxidants and powered
metals
SF High particulate loading
(explosive) or high particulate
loading (burning) Incendiaries Incendiaries Thermite (aluminum and rust),
Phosphorous, Napalm, Bombs with
magnesium casing
SF
Photoflash Photoflash compositions Mixture containing:
● Aluminum or magnesium (fuel)
● Barium nitrate or potassium
perchlorate (oxidizer)
FP High particulate loading
(explosive)
Colored and white
smoke
Explosive dissemination type
(dispersed with bursting
charge to create hydrolysis)
Mixtures of sulfur trioxide,
chlorosulfonic acid
CS
Venturi thermal generator
(slow burning smoke)
Ammonium nitrate or ammonium
chloride mixed with fuel
FI, FP Ammonium nitrate blend
Burning type White phosphorous
Red phosphorous (signal)
CP, CS High particulate loading
(burning)
Tracers and fumers Tracers and fumers Contain mixtures of:
● Strontium peroxide
● Magnesium
● Potassium perchlorate (oxidizer),
etc.
SA High particulate loading
(burning)

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Table 2
(Continued)
Explosive Types Description Example Compounds MIDAS Family Constituent Subfamily
(Pyrotechnics (cont.)
Flares and signals Thermal radiation from the
product oxide particles and the
spectral emission from excited
metals
Consist of:
● Sodium nitrate (oxidant)
● Magnesium
● Aluminum (fuel at times)
● Binder
CP, CR, CS, FP High particulate loading
(burning)
Ignitors and initiators Ignitors and initiators (between
primary ignitor and main
charge)
Black powder
Ignition mixtures containing:
● Aluminum
● Barium chromate
● Laminac
● Magnesium
● Others
Black Powder
FP, I, PD, SC

Ignition mixtures
PD, SC, SF
Black powder
Ignition mixtures

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Table 3
MIDAS Families
Family Description
AT Armor Tile (Reactive)
CD Munitions Containing Dyes
CH Munitions Containing Hexachloroethane (Smoke)
CP White Phosphorous Containing Ammunition
CR Riot Control Munitions
CS
Smoke-Producing Munitions (not including those that contain white or red phosphorous or
hexachloroethane)
DU Ammunition Items Using Depleted Uranium
FI Incendiary/Thermite
FP Pyrotechnics/Illumination/Nonfrag/Tracers
HA HE Components (detonators, boosters, or bursting charges)
HB HE Bombs
HC HE Cartridges
HD High Explosive "D" (ammonium picrate)
HE Bulk High Explosives (TNT, Compostion A, Composition B, Composition C-4, PBX, RDX)
HG HE Grenades HE
HH HE Depth Charges and Underwater Munitions
HI HE ICM/CBU & Submunitions
HM Missiles
HP HE Projectiles and Warheads
HR HE Rockets
HT Torpedoes
HX Demolition Material
HZ HE Land Mines
IN Inert Items
LR
Large Rocket Motors (solid propellant ICBM, SLBM, or space launch booster motors) not
including tactical rocket or missile motors or anti-ballistic missile systems
NN No Family (ammunition and components that cannot be identified)
PB Bulk Propellant
PC Propellant Charges & Increments
PD Propellant Munitions/Components
SA Small Caliber Ammunition
SB Sonobouys
SC
Incinerable Munitions and Components (items typically assigned to hazard classes 1.3 and 1.4 that
do not fit into any other family)
SF Fuzes
TA Chemical Muntions (containing GB, VX, Mustard etc.)
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Table 4
Constituent Subfamilies

Constituent
Subfamily

Constituent Subfamily Description

Typical Energetics within
the Constituent Subfamily

Applicable
MIDAS Family
Primary explosives
compounds
Low detonation rate explosives based on lead, mercury, and similar heavy
metals. Power is generated by the release of electrons from crystal
imperfections during ignition. The rate of burn is controlled to ensure that
excessive pressure does not develop. Crystal imperfections serve as shallow
electron traps and release electrons during conduction both at elevated
temperature (thermal excitation) and through intense flame reaction
(photoexcitation).
Mercury fulminate
Lead azide
DDNP
Lead stephynate
Tetracene
Lead thiocynate
HA, HZ, SC, SF
Nitramines Compounds prepared by N-type nitration where a nitrogroup is attached to a
nitrogen atom of the compound being nitrated. These cyclic nitramines are
used in explosives and propellants as an energetic source of gases.
HMX
RDX
EDDN (Haleite)
Tetryl (pryolite, tetralite)
HA, HC, HE, HI,
HP, HR, HT, HX,
HZ, LR, SA, SF
Nitroaromatics Nitroaromatics are compounds prepared by C-type nitration in which a
nitrogroup is attached to a nitrogen atom of the compound being nitrated.
TATB
TNT
HB, HC, HE, HG,
HR, HT, HX, HZ,
LR
Aliphatic nitrate
esters
Compounds prepared by O-type nitration where nitrogroup is attached to a
nitrogen atom of the compound being nitrated. These organic -based
explosives are fast burning and generate large amounts of gas by-products.
BTN
Nitrocellulose (NC)
Nitroglycerin (NG)
PETN
TEGN
TMETN
DEGN
HR, HX, PB, PD,
SC, SF
Nitramine blends Nitramine blends consist of the nitramine mixed with plasticizers
(Composition C) or desensitizers (Composition A) to create explosives that
are less sensitive, demonstrate better workability, and detonate at a lower
rate than a pure nitramine.
Composition A
Composition C
HE, HX, HI
Nitroaromatic and
nitramine blends
Nitroaromatic/nitramine blends create a nitrogen-rich atmosphere and
generate very large blast effects. They have readily available supplies of
oxygen and nitrogen and are capable of producing a higher presence than a
pure version of either compound. The blends are generally less sensitive
than either a pure nitroaromatic or nitramine and are used primarily in fuzes
and high explosive cartridges.
Composition B
Ednatols
Octols
Tetrytols
HBX
Torpex
Minol
HB, HD
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Table 4
(Continued)

Constituent
Subfamily

Constituent Subfamily Description

Typical Energetics within
the Constituent Subfamily

Applicable
MIDAS Family
Aliphatic nitrate
ester and
nitroaromatic blends
Blends of the aliphatic nitrate ester (e.g., PETN) with the nitroaromatic (e.g.,
TNT) create a high explosive with an increased blast strength, fragmentation
strength, and heat of combustion and provide more charge weight per
volume than pure TNT. These blends are primarily used in detonators and
boosters requiring high detonation rates and are melt-loaded.
Pentolite PD
Aliphatic nitrate
ester and nitramine
blends
Aliphatic nitrate ester/nitramine blends consist of a thermosetting plastic
binder (e.g., polyurethane) filled with powered explosives, oxidants, and
nitramine fuels (e.g., RDX or ammonium perchlorate). Oxidant fuels, (e.g.
powered aluminum) are not commonly added since the inherent properties of
the nitramine usually meet the requirements for the explosives. They are
primarily used in fuzes and HE cartridges.
PBX HE, HR, HT, LR
Nitroaromatic blends Nitroaromatic blends consist of the nitroaromatic used with aluminum flakes
or aluminum pictrate to create explosives that are less sensitive than TNT,
capable of being cast, and detonate at approximately the same rate as a pure
nitroaromatic. The optimum percentage of aluminum is between 18% and
20%.
Picratol
Tritonal
HB, HD
Ammonium nitrate
(AN) blends
Ammonium nitrate, the primary inorganic high explosive, reacts with the
TNT creating a larger exothermic reaction and resulting in higher heat
generation, greater expansion of gases, and greater blast effect.

Incorporation of aluminum to ammonium nitrate/TNT mixtures causes:
● Increased sensitivity to impact, friction, and rifle bullet impact.
● Increased temperatures of detonation (1700°C to 3900°C).
● Increased power up to 20%.
● Increased total volume of gas evolved during detonation (sometimes).
● Decreased detonation velocity and brisance.

In fuel-air bombs, the ammonium nitrate increases the heat of detonation by
almost three-fold.
Amatol (TNT/AN)
Ammonal
(TNT/AN/aluminum)
Water gel/slurry explosives
Minol (TNT/AN/aluminum)
Anatex (TNT/RDX/AN)
DBX (TNT/AN/aluminum)
Fuel-air bombs (AN/fuel
oil)
HH
Utah Test and Training Range
Attachment 2-Waste Characterization Plan
Issued DRAFT

2-16
Table 4
(Continued)

Constituent
Subfamily

Constituent Subfamily Description

Typical Energetics within
the Constituent Subfamily

Applicable
MIDAS Family
Single-base
propellant
Nitrocellulose is the principle energetic in single-base propellants. The
propellants are characterized by a low flame temperature and low energy
content. Except in rare cases, nitroglycerin and other explosives are not
found in these propellants.
M-series propellants (M1,
M6, M10, and IMR)
HI, PB, PC, SA

Double-base
propellant
Nitrocellulose is gelantized by nitroglycerin in double-base propellants.
This results in higher energetic strength and increased ballistic potential
and flame temperature. Other aliphatic nitrate esters may be used (e.g.,
DEGN); however, this is uncommon. In double-base propellants, the
nitroglycerin acts as a strong oxygen source.

Ball propellants have a deterrent coating (e.g., dibutylphthalate) to reduce
the burn rate of the propellant.
Ball propellants
M-series propellants (M2,
M5, M8, and M18)
PB, PC, PD, SA

Triple-base
propellant
Nitroguanidine, as a nitrogen source, is added to the nitroglycerin and
nitrocellulose in triple-base propellants. This result is increased energy
content without raised flame temperature and substantially reduced
concentrations of combustibles (hydrogen and carbon monoxide) in the
product gas.
M-series propellants (M30
and M31)
PB, PC, SA, SC
Composite
propellant
Composite propellants are suspensions of crystalline oxidizers (e.g.,
ammonium or potassium perchlorate) and metallic fuels in a resin binder.
The oxidizers are a dense oxygen source and contribute the most to the
burning characteristics of composite prop ellants. Numerous cross-linking
chemicals are used as binders, catalysts, and as processing aids.
Rocket motors
High particulate
loading (burning)
Incendiaries are characterized by high heats of oxidation, components metals
in the sodium spectrum, and the ratio of oxide to metal volume greater than
one. Illumination and signal devices are a result of thermal radiation
generated by oxidation of excited metals. Sodium nitrate is usually used as
the oxidant due to its sensitivity to the human eye. The only exception is in
infrared devices, which use constituents that peak in the infrared spectrum
rather than the sodium spectrum.
Tracers and fumers
Smokes with phosphorous
compounds, zinc chloride,
or metallic phosphides
Smokes with ammonium
nitrate/chloride and oil
Incendiaries, flares, and
signals
Napalm
Delays
CP, CR, CS, FP,
SA
Utah Test and Training Range
Attachment 2-Waste Characterization Plan
Issued DRAFT

2-17
Table 4
(Continued)

Constituent
Subfamily

Constituent Family Description
Typical Energetics within
the Constituent Family

Applicable
MIDAS Family
High particulate
loading (explosive)
Explosives that are pulverized/atomized and then vaporized or where a
preground solid is dispersed by the explosion of a bursting charge.
Photoflash and thermite munitions are included since detonation occurs
almost instantaneously after initiation and deflagration.
Smokes with metallic
chlorides
Thermite
Photoflash
Fuzes
SF, FP
Black powder A low order detonation agent used primarily as an initiator for artillery
propellant charges and for blank small arms ammunition. Compositions
consist of three formulations using varying percentages of potassium nitrate,
sodium nitrate, charcoal, coal, and sulfur.

Blanks
Ignitors (artillery)
FP, I, PD, SC

Ignition mixtures 17 formulations consisting of an oxidizer (e.g., barium peroxide or
potassium perchlorate) or heavy metal (e.g., zirconium) combined with
binders (e.g., sugar and charcoal). Accelerators (e.g., powered aluminum)
may be used to quicken initiation.
First fire, ignition or
starters (intermediates
between the primary
ignitor and main charge)
PD, SC, SF
Utah Test and Training Range
Attachment 2-Waste Characterization Plan
Issued DRAFT

2-18
Table 5
Department of Transportation Explosive Hazard Class Divisions
Class 1 Explosive Division Description (49 CFR 173.50)
Division 1.1 Explosives that have a mass explosion hazard, i.e. a mass
explosion affects almost the entire load instantaneously.
Division 1.2 Explosives that have a projection hazard but not a mass
explosion hazard.
Division 1.3
Explosives that have a fire hazard and either a minor blast
hazard or minor projection hazard or both, but not a mass
explosion hazard.
Division 1.4
Explosives that present minor explosion hazard. The
explosive effects are largely confined to the package and no
projection or fragments of appreciable size or range are
expected. An external fire must not cause virtually
instantaneous explosion of almost the entire contents of the
package.
Division 1.5
Very insensitive explosives that have a mass explosion
hazard but are so insensitive that there is little probability of
initiation or of transition from burning to detonation under
normal conditions of transport.
Division 1.6
Extremely insensitive articles that do not have a mass
explosive hazard and that contain only extremely insensitive
detonating substances and demonstrate a negligible
probability of accidental initiation or propagation.

Utah Test and Training Range
Attachment 2-Waste Characterization Plan
Issued DRAFT

2-19

2.7 Characterization of Past Waste Treatment

The TTU facility is permitted for the treatment of a wide variety of energetic materials as
described in Section 2. However over the last 20 years, the primary focus at the facility has
been the treatment of large solid fuel rocket motors. Treatment of large rocket motors began
in the early 1990s with the Poseidon C-3 missile motors. With the completion of the C-3
treatment program, treatment activities at the TTU over the past decade have focused on the
Trident C-4 and D-5, Titan, and Minuteman motors. Future treatment operations are likely to
continue to focus on large rocket motors including the Trident II or D-5 motor and
Minuteman III motors. Treatment statistics from 2002 to 2022 are shown in Figure 1. Figure
2 shows the annual total mass (net explosive weight) of all items treated from 2002 to 2022.

Figure 1. Items treated at the Thermal Treatment Unit from 2002 to 2022. Total mass
of items treated during this period was 28,246,121 pounds.

Class 1.1 Scrap
Propellent OD 0.31%
Class 1.1 Sprint
Motors OD
0.48%
Class 1.1 Trident(C-4 D-
5) OD
62.65%
Class 1.3 Scrap
Propellant OB
4.85%
Class 1.1
Minuteman OD
1.48%
Class 1.3
Minuteman OB
15.66%
Class 1.3 Titan OB
10.84%
Class 1.3 Smokeless
Powder
3.30%
MISC OD
0.43%
Class 1.1 Scrap Propellent
OD
Class 1.1 Sprint Motors OD
Class 1.1 (C-4, D-5) OD
Class 1.3 Scrap Propellant OB
Class 1.1 MinuteMan OD
Class 1.3 Minuteman OB
Class 1.3 Titan OB
Utah Test and Training Range
Attachment 2-Waste Characterization Plan
Issued DRAFT

2-20

Figure 2. Total annual net explosive weight of items treated at the Thermal Treatment
Unit from 2002 to 2022. Total mass of items treated during this period was 28,246,121
pounds.

3.0 Waste Analysis Plan [R315-264-13(b) and (c) and R315-270-14(b)(3)]

The UTTR-North TTU both treats waste and may generate waste as a result of the treatment
process. The description of how these wastes are characterized before treatment, storage, or
disposal activities are carried out is contained in the Waste Analysis Plan for Residue and
Ash (Attachment 3).

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