[CPEO-MEF] Shuttle debris a toxic witch’s brew

[CPEO Moderator <cpeo@cpeo.org>]

Texas
Shuttle debris a toxic witch’s brew

DALLAS, Feb. 3 —   From corrosive fuels to ammonia-like liquids,
insulation and plastics, space shuttle Columbia carried a witch’s brew
of toxic and caustic materials designed to work in the hostile
environment of space. Authorities warned the public to stay away from
shuttle debris because it could be harmful.

There were no reports of injuries on the ground when the debris plunged
to Earth, but at least 70 people had sought medical treatment at local
hospitals after coming into contact with pieces of wreckage. Most had no
adverse health effects, but authorities in Sabine County said that eight
had been treated for burns and respiratory distress after breathing
toxic vapors.

“There’s nothing on the shuttle beneficial to humans. The fuel, the
propellant, all can be very abrasive,” said Gene Perry, an engineer who
worked on early space station plans put together at the Marshall Space
Flight Center in Huntsville, Ala.

Perry said either liquid oxygen from the shuttle’s fuel system or liquid
nitrogen used to inflate the tires could be dangerous.

This article can be viewed at:
http://www.msnbc.com/news/868121.asp

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