NSWC/WOL/TR 75-3 5 



NSWC/WOL/TR 75-3 5 4 April 1975 



A CHEMICAL MONITORING PROGRAM OF THE EXPLOSION PRODUCTS IN 

 UNDERWATER EXPLOSION TESTS 



The Navy has been conducting underwater explosion tests in fresh 

 waters and marine waters for many years. Although the tests, based 

 on qualitative information, are believed to contribute no adverse 

 effects on the environment, factual data are still needed for the 

 quantitative assessment of the probable environmental impact from 

 the tests. In addition, new explosive compositions have products 

 that may be less acceptable than the products of compositions 

 frequently used in the past. This report has been prepared to 

 institute a chemical monitoring program of the explosion products in 

 underwater explosion tests, to determine monitoring parameters, and 

 to provide procedures and methodology for the program. 



Because of the complexity of underwater explosion testing, this 

 report is aimed to serve as a general guide for several common types 

 of explosives used in the tests. Parameters for other specific 

 operations should be further formulated as requirements arise. 



In order to specify procedures adequately, it has been necessary 

 occasionally to identify commercial materials and equipment in this 

 report. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or 

 endorsement by the Navy, nor does it imply that the material or 

 equipment identified is necessarily the best available for the 

 purpose . 



The preparation of this report was sponsored by the Naval Sea Systems 

 Command under Task SEA-SF53554-301 . 



Lj^^^^ 



JOHN B. WILCOX 

 By direction 



