The production, testing, and demilitarization of solid rocket propellant generates large quantities of perchlorate-contaminated wastewater that must be treated to meet discharge permits. Applied Research Associates, with support from the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) and the Joint Ordnance Commanders Group (JOCG), Demil and Disposal Subgroup, successfully developed a biodegradation process during the mid 1990s. An R&D prototype was fabricated and tested at Tyndall, Air Force Base.  

Objectives:

• Transition the R&D prototype into a full-scale industrial treatment process

• Demonstrate the performance of the biodegradation process at ATK-Thiokol, Promontory, Utah

• Optimize performance and treatment cost

Results and Benefits

In December 1997, the first perchlorate biodegradation system for industrial wastewater began operation at ATK Thiokol. This system currently treats over one million gallons of wastewater per year and has the capability to destroy up to 8000 lb/mo of perchlorate (ammonium and potassium) and nitrate compounds.  The treatment system saves an estimated $2 million in operating costs in addition to the value of rocket motor cases recovered from propellant washout operations.  The treatment system directly supports the Minuteman III remanufacture program, Space Shuttle RSRM production and case reclamation, Delta SSRM production, and the development and production of energetic materials.