The Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, or PCAPP, is in the closure phase, planned to be complete in 2027. From 2015 to 2023, the PCAPP team destroyed 780,078 projectiles and mortar rounds containing 2,613 tons of the blister agent mustard. The last chemical weapon in the stockpile in Colorado was destroyed June 22, 2023.
The last chemical munition in the declared U.S. stockpile was destroyed July 7, 2023, in Richmond, Kentucky.
Highlights
- Significant staff drawdowns occurred during September as the plant moved closer to the demolition phase, with more than 180 employees ending their employment with the project.
- U.S. Army Chemical Materials Activity-West ended its security support for the PCAPP project. PCAPP now oversees the north access gate for its employees and contractors, while PuebloPlex hired a security contractor for access control at the south gate.
- The PCAPP team executed the contract for Closure Phase 2, which includes building demolition and site remediation.
Safety
- As of Sept. 30, the Bechtel Pueblo Team completed 1,238,754 hours without a lost-time accident.
Main Plant
- Workers conducted scabbling and jack-hammering oil-stained concrete in Munitions Treatment Unit 2 and off-gas treatment system.
- Wipe and rinsate sampling continued in the Agent Filtration Area.
- In preparation for winter, the 250-horsepower boiler was successfully tested, but the 350-horsepower boiler awaits testing following installation of a new manhole cover and seal.
- Borescope testing will begin on ducts in the Agent Processing Building to determine the nature of debris coating the ducts.
- Workers conducted closeouts and rinsate sampling on several laboratory hoods.
- Asbestos sampling was completed across the plant.
Permitting
- State regulators approved a request for cessation of monitoring and engineering controls in igloo H1102. Since the completion of agent operations at the SDC Complex in June 2023, no agent munitions have been stored in the igloo so the requirements for air monitoring and engineering controls are no longer needed.
Static Detonation Chamber (SDC)
- The SDC complex is now cold and dark after cessation of heat and electricity.
- Sampling continues on pad 1 of the SDC complex for stormwater management issues.
- Removal of cameras at the complex is complete.
Workforce Transition
- XXX workers are employed on the project as of Sept. 30, 2025; a total of XXX were released in September for a total of 892 who have left the project thus far.
Upcoming Meetings
- The next Colorado Chemical Demilitarization Citizens’ Advisory Commission meeting will be held online Oct. 29 at 3 p.m. MT. Join online by using the link and information below.
Online platform: Zoom
Phone: 1 (719) 359-4580
Meeting ID: 84351934182#
