Clean-up products target military needs.

• Author: Kennedy, Harold

The market for environmentally friendly products is expanding in the military arena. On display at NDIA's 29th Environmental and Energy Symposium in Richmond, Va., were these examples:

"Cantainers," made by the Bowhead Manufacturing Company LLC, of Barrow, Alaska, can hold up to four five-gallon jerry cans of fuel apiece. These stackable, plastic containers, which resemble picnic coolers, make it easier to transport the cans and to control spillage.

They are vented to prevent fume buildup and weatherproofed to minimize rain from washing away pollutants, according to Steve Chappell, Bowhead's national sales manager. Although the containers weigh up to 175 pounds apiece when filled, they can be lifted by two service personnel using the handles provided on each end, Chappell noted.

The ROPAK system of collapsible and reusable plastic shipping crates--made by LINPAC Materials Handling, based in Georgetown, Ky.--is more durable than the wooden pallets and crates traditionally used to ship military equipment and supplies, according to Mark D. Malatras, the firm's government industry manager.

ROPAK crates--made of high-density polyethylene-don't break as easily as wooden versions, and when they do wear out, they can be recycled, Malatras said. Also, they can be opened from the sides, allowing access to the contents while in transit, he said.

A WCS-25 self-recycling weapons cleaning station--made by Claws Technologies LLC, of Bellingham, Wash.--allows two service members to stand side-by-side, cleaning their weapons, according to spokesperson Karl A. Thomas. The WCS-25 was designed with the help of Army armorers to make it faster and easier to clean weapons and safely dispose of contaminants, he said.

The station features a stainless steel soaking tray for barrels, oven-baked powder coatings...