TM 3-4230-209-10
I
2-22. MIXING CHEMICALS OTHER THAN STB IN TANK (CONT).
Add 175 pounds of calcium hypochlorite (1 /2 lb per 1 gal of water) at a slow and
steady rate. Add 250 pounds of sodium carbonate. It must be used immediately. If it
is not, it must be agitated until used. Agitate for at least three minutes before using.
NOTE
If mixture is not used immediately, agitate until used. It must be agitated
(through the agitation connection) for five minutes before using.
If agitation is required, close VALVE NO. 1, disconnect the agitator-blender hose (7)
from the blender pipe (8), and attach it to the agitator pipe (6) on the tank unit.
c. Sodium Carbonate (item 24, app D).
NOTE
Sodium carbonate is commonly called soda ash, sal soda, washing soda, or
laundry soda. The commercial grades may contain large amounts of sodium
bicarbonate (baking soda). A sodium carbonate mixture does not neutralize
blister agents or V-agents as readily as caustic soda or calcium hypochlorite.
A hot or cold soda ash solution is effective on G-agents. Sodium carbonate is
not as toxic as other decontaminants. However, crew members handling and
preparing the solution should wear protective masks and gloves to guard
against heavy clouds of powder.
Sodium carbonate is available in 100 pound
bags.
2-106
