The Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant is processing chemical munitions again after pausing when two storage tanks were taken out of service due to small leaks that were identified and immediately mitigated to prevent further issues.
The plant temporarily stopped destroying 155mm projectiles and mustard agent after a routine inspection May 15 found hydrolysate seeping from two of three 30-Day Hydrolysate Storage Tanks, which were built with weep holes designed to alert the plant to any issues.
The plant followed established procedure and suspended operations that generate the hydrolysate, a product of the chemical neutralization of mustard agent. The seepage amounted to less than 8 ounces.
Prior to the May 15 pause, PCAPP had eliminated more than 774 tons of agent, nearly 30% of the Pueblo chemical stockpile, said Walton Levi, acting site project manager. The plant resumed operations on June 12.
