A Case Study in Modeling Dispersion of Yperite and CLARK I and II from Munitions at Paardenmarkt, Belgium

Abstract

AbstractA case study focused on modeling the dispersion of Yperite (Sulfur Mustard) and arsenical chemical agents CLARK I and II in sediment from munitions disposed at the Paardenmarkt site, Belgium, is discussed. Based on conceptual models, simulations were run for the dispersion of Yperite and CLARK I and II in marine sediments, generating concentration data for temporal and geographical scales in the event of a leakage from an idealized munition. Based on the simulation, leakage of Yperite from a munition into the surrounding marine sediment will give toxic effects only up to a few centimeters from the munition casing. Utilizing a munition with an estimated 44 g of arsenic for the CLARK I and II simulations, the arsenical degradents at the level of Estimated No Effects Concentration or higher gives a volume of sediments in the shape of a sphere with a radius of 0.5 m in a time period of 10 years; increasing threefold in volume over a period of 100 years.