The U.S. Army announced it has joined up with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to study how to better transport bulk ammonia in order to better understand and mitigate community hazards.
The study, the Ammonia Port Preparedness and Emergency Response (AmPPER) project will evaluate the vulnerabilities of transporting bulk ammonia, as well as test the ability of protective fear to block toxic vapors and examine water-spray containment systems designed to protect port workers and communities in a major chemical release of ammonia. An essential chemical with global production surpassing 220 million tons annually, ammonia is transported in large volumes across American rail lines, waterways, and highways.
“Ammonia is used every day, and working with this compound reinforces how critical it is for American industry, economic commerce, and infrastructure resilience,” said Jessica Cox, chemical security specialist at CSAC. “It impacts how our population is fed, how electronics are manufactured, how fuel is managed, and how food is stored.”
Accidental leaks or punctures present serious public safety and national infrastructure risks, officials said. Once released, pressurized liquid ammonia vaporizes into a dense, caustic cloud that irritates the eyes and can cause severe, potentially fatal chemical burns to the respiratory system.
To study it, experts from DHS S&T’s Chemical Security Analysis Center (CSAC) will work with Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) to evaluate human exposure risks in the event of a transit incident.
“The demand for ammonia is only going to grow,” Helen Mearns, CSAC deputy director, said. “Proactive safety measures are vital to prevent catastrophic events, as transport accidents can lead to severe injuries and operational disruption.”
The joint team tested both certified personal protective equipment for first responders and common household items for civilians caught near an unexpected release. Researchers found that standard swim goggles provide an effective seal around the eyes, preventing chemical irritation and preserving critical vision during an emergency escape. The study also looked at towels dampened with common household liquids—including water, vinegar, lime juice, and brewed coffee—and how effectively they neutralized and filtered out ammonia vapors.
“We can characterize ammonia, understand its risks, and test practical mitigation measures so we can reduce hazards and save lives,” Cox said. “At the same time, it ensures our ports and transit corridors can safely keep up with the nation’s economic and energy needs.”