Packaging Practice in the

In the United States, lead azide manufactured for military use is packaged in steel drums under 50 50 water-ethanol solution however, isopropanol may be substituted for the ethanol. The drums are stored in above-ground magazines, and surveillance consists of periodic checks of the drum exterior and a yearly inspection of the liquid level. The top of each drum is fitted with a clear plastic plug to allow a more stringent control of the liquid level. 

DRUMS FILLED WITH ALCOHOL/WATER SOLUTION 

The lead azide is wetted with at least 20% of its weight of 50% water-50% denatured alcohol mixture when placed in the duck bag. A duck cap is usually placed on top of the diaper cloth bags before the duck bag is sealed off to prevent escape of lead azide through the orifice. 

Previously, packaging specifications allowed the use of a rubberized cloth bag. However, during the long-term storage study discussed below, it was shown that the use of the rubberized bags results in deterioration of the lead azide and necessitates the destruction of the lead azide. 

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