Chemical Stabilization of Lead in Small Arms Firing Range Soils

Abstract

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited Prepared for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Washington, DC 20314-1000ABSTRACT: The U.S. military operates Small Arms Firing Ranges (SAFRs) at various locations in and outside the United States. The ranges are used for munitions training for military personnel. Because the ranges have been in operation for a number of years, the soils at SAFRs are contaminated with spent munitions, lead bullets, and other metal contaminants. Although SAFR projectiles contain primarily lead, copper, and antimony, lead is by far the most toxic component. As a consequence of lead-contaminated soils and the distinctive site topographies found at SAFRs, the potential for lead migration that poses risks to the environment exists. Remediation efforts are needed to mitigate lead mobility and availability. Numerous studies have been conducted on reducing the impact of lead contaminants in the environment. This study tests chemical materials for lead stabilization that are economical and readily adaptable to field application at SAFRs. The study evaluates the effectiveness of iron and phosphate chemicals as in situ treatments for reducing lead mobility at SAFRs. Two leaching tests were developed. One test evaluated treatment effectiveness during leaching at the