DOE/EA-1457

Environmental Assessment

for the

Center for Integrated 

Nanotechnologies at Sandia National 

Laboratories/New Mexico 

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Final Environmental Assessment

March 2003

Department of Energy, Sandia Site Office

Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque New Mexico
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 Purpose and Need for Agency Action.......................................................................................1

2.0 No Action and Proposed Action Alternatives............................................................................3

2.1 No Action Alternative .................................................................................................3

 2.1.1 Air Quality.....................................................................................................3

 2.1.2 Waste Management........................................................................................3

 2.1.3 Water Use and Wastewater..............................................................................4

2.2 Proposed Action Construction Activities......................................................................4

 2.2.1 Construction...................................................................................................4

 2.2.2 Construction Air Conformity...........................................................................4

 2.2.3 Construction Waste Management.....................................................................8

 2.2.4 Construction Water Use and Liquid Effluents...................................................8

 2.2.5 Construction Worker Health and Safety...........................................................8

2.3 Proposed Action Operations........................................................................................8

 2.3.1 Air Quality................................................................................................... 11

 2.3.2 Waste Management...................................................................................... 11

 2.3.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents..................................................................... 12

 2.2.4 Human Health and Safety.............................................................................. 12

3.0 Affected Environment........................................................................................................... 13

3.1 General Site Description ........................................................................................... 13

3.2 Air Quality............................................................................................................... 14

3.3 Land Use ................................................................................................................. 15

3.4 Waste Management.................................................................................................. 15

3.5 Site Services............................................................................................................. 15

4.0 Environmental Consequences................................................................................................ 16

4.1 No Action Alternative Operations.............................................................................. 16

 4.1.1 Air Emissions............................................................................................... 16

 4.1.2 Waste Management...................................................................................... 17

4.1.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents..................................................................... 17

4.1.4 Human Health and Safety.............................................................................. 17

4.2 Proposed Action Construction Activities.................................................................... 17

 4.2.1 Construction Air Conformity......................................................................... 18

 4.2.2 Construction Water Use and Liquid Effluents................................................. 18

 4.2.3 Construction Waste Management................................................................... 18

 4.2.4 Construction Health and Safety ..................................................................... 18

4.3 Proposed Action Operations...................................................................................... 18

 4.3.1 Air Emissions............................................................................................... 19

4.3.2 Waste Management...................................................................................... 20

4.3.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents..................................................................... 20

4.3.4 Human Health and Safety.............................................................................. 21

4.4 Environmental Justice............................................................................................... 21

4.5 Cumulative Effects................................................................................................... 21

4.6 Abnormal Occurrences.............................................................................................. 22

5.0 References........................................................................................................................... 23
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LIST OF TABLES 

Table 2.2-1. Estimated CO Emissions Associated with CINT Core Facility 

 Construction Activities ...............................................................................................7

Table 2.3.1-1. CINT HAP Dispersion Modeling Results................................................................... 11

Table 4-1. Comparison of Estimated Annual Emissions and Wastes for the No Action and Proposed 

Action Alternatives................................................................................................... 16

Table 4.3.1-1. CINT HAP Dispersion Modeling Results................................................................... 19

Table 4.3.1-2. CINT Secondary Modeling Results............................................................................ 20

Table 4.4-1. Average Minority and Low-Income Populations in the CINT Core Facility Vicinity

Compared to the State Averages................................................................................ 21

 

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.2-1. Location Map of the SNL/NM Technical Areas............................................................5

Figure 2.2-2. CINT Core Facility Site Map.......................................................................................6
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ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

AEHD Albuquerque Environmental Health Department

ALARA as low as reasonably achievable

BMBL Biosafety in Microbiology and Biomedical Laboratories

BSL Biosafety Level

CDR Conceptual Design Report

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

CINT Center for Integrated Nanontechnologies

CO carbon monoxide

DoD U.S. Department of Defense

DOE U.S. Department of Energy

EA Environmental Assessment

EPA Environmental Protection Agency

ES&H Environment, Safety, and Health

ft foot

ft2  square feet

ft/sec feet per second

gal gallon

HAP hazardous air pollutant

hr hour

IMRL Integrated Materials Research Laboratory

IWGN Interagency Working Group on Nanoscale Science, Energy, and Technology

KAFB Kirtland Air Force Base

kg kilogram

L liter

LLW low-level radioactive waste

LLMW low-level mixed waste

lb pound

m meter

m

2

 square meters

m

3 

 cubic meter

MTRU mixed transuranic

μg/m3 micrograms per cubic meter

MEI maximally exposed individual

MGY million gallons per year

NA not applicable

NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards

NEPA National Environmental Protection Act 

NESHAP National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants

NHPA National Historic Preservation Act

NMAC New Mexico Administrative Code

NMED New Mexico Environment Department

NNI National Nanotechnology Initiative

NNSA National Nuclear Security Administration

NSRC Nanoscale Science Research Centers

OBES Office of Basic Energy Sciences

OEL Occupational Exposure Limit

OSHA Occupational Health and Safety Administration

PEL permissible exposure limits

PPE personal protective equipment
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ppm parts per million

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

ROI radius of impact

SHPO State Historic Preservation Office

SNL Sandia National Laboratories

SNL/NM Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico

SWEIS Site-Wide Environmental Impact Statement

TA Technical Area

TEV Threshold Emission Value

TPY tons per year

TRU transuranic

TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act

USAF U.S. Air Force

USC United States Code

USFS U.S. Forest Service

VOC volatile organic compound

yd yard

yd3  cubic yard

yr year
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1.0 PURPOSE AND NEED FOR AGENCY ACTION 

In 1999, the United States government announced the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) that 

included a proposal directed at doubling the nation’s investment in nanotechnology to ensure the United 

States’ competitive position in the rapidly developing field of nanotechnology.

As part of the NNI, the National Science and Technology Council Interagency Working Group on 

Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology (IWGN) concluded that research centers would permit 

activities that cannot be accomplished in the traditional mode of small groups or single investigators or 

with the current research infrastructure. The IWGN recognized the importance of establishing research 

centers with major Department of Energy (DOE) specialized and user facilities. Consequently, the DOE 

Office of Basic Energy Sciences (OBES) plans to support the NNI, in part, through the establishment of 

an integrated national program of Nanoscale Science Research Centers (NSRC) affiliated with major 

facilities at DOE’s national laboratories.

Specific objectives of the NSRCs are to accomplish the following:

• Advance the fundamental understanding and control of materials at the nanoscale regime

• Provide an environment to support research of a scope, complexity, and disciplinary breadth not 

possible under traditional investigator or small group efforts

• Provide the foundation for the development of nanotechnologies important to the DOE

• Provide state-of-the-art equipment to in-house laboratory, university, and industry researchers and

optimize the use of national user facilities for materials characterization employing electrons,

photons, and neutrons

• Provide a formal mechanism for both short- and long-term collaborations and partnerships among 

DOE laboratory, academic, and industrial researchers

• Provide training for graduate students and postdoctoral associates in interdisciplinary nanoscale 

science, engineering, and technology research

To date, five centers have been initiated. Four of the centers would each be located at an individual 

laboratory; Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Argonne National 

Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory. The fifth center, the Center for Integrated

Nanotechnologies (CINT), would be located at both Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico

(SNL/NM) and Los Alamos National Laboratories (LANL).

This joint operations approach would be used to leverage laboratory expertise and facilities to create a 

unified scientific community. This community would be built with significant participation from 

university, industrial, and laboratory researchers and would provide them with the proper tools and 

scientific focus to address the challenges on nanoscale science and technology. Consistently with the 

NSRC objectives, CINT would focus on (1) developing the scientific principles that govern the

performance and integration of nanoscale materials, and (2) providing a research center for educating a 

new generation of scientists, thereby building the foundations for future scientists with expertise in 

nanotechnologies. The CINT program would work closely with other DOE nanoscience centers,

universities, and industrial partners.
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The purpose for DOE action is to ensure that the objectives of CINT can be met. While the capabilities 

and success of CINT will draw heavily upon facilities and expertise at SNL/NM and LANL, new 

facilities are needed that would encourage interactions across CINT’s multiple areas of research

emphasis, provide for easy and continuous access to state-of-the-art equipment, and support participation 

by students and collaborators, including foreign nationals. 
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2.0 NO ACTION AND PROPOSED ACTION ALTERNATIVES

This chapter describes the No Action Alternative, the Proposed Action, and alternatives considered but 

not analyzed in detail. The No Action Alternative involves continuing operations at SNL/NM as

described in the Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico (SNL/NM) Site-Wide Environmental Impact 

Statement (SWEIS).

The Proposed Action would consist of the construction and operation of a CINT Core Facility and the 

establishment of a Gateway to Sandia Facility. The CINT Core Facility would be constructed on DOEowned property north of the entrance to Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB) on Eubank Boulevard in 

Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the Gateway to Sandia Facility would be established in existing space 

within the existing Integrated Materials Research Laboratory (IMRL) SNL/NM’s Technical Area I (TAI). 

Alternatives considered but not analyzed in detail include the following:

• Construct the facility in another location at SNL/NM – Part of the purpose of the CINT would be to 

allow greater access for non-DOE/SNL personnel and academic researchers, which is problematic in 

the secure areas. The DOE-owned land on which the CINT is proposed to be built is the only 

location at SNL/NM where there is sufficient acreage to build the CINT outside the secure areas.

• Construct the facility at another DOE facility – Proximity to facilities and personnel currently 

conducting nanotechnology-related research at SNL/NM is part of the need for this facility. 

Constructing the facility at another DOE location would remove the CINT to a location distant from 

many of the researchers who would likely be employed in its operation. Therefore, this alternative 

was not analyzed further.

2.1 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE

As stated, under the No Action Alternative the CINT Core Facility would not be constructed and operated 

at SNL/NM, and current operations would continue as described in the Expanded Operations Alternative 

and, as presented in the Record of Decision for the SWEIS (DOE 1999). SNL/NM CINT Gateway 

activities would likewise not be conducted under the No Action Alternative. Following is a description of 

environmental and human health and safety resources as they exist under the No Action Alternative.

2.1.1 Air Quality

The No Action Alternative would result in no change in or relocation of air emissions sources. Air 

emissions would continue as described in the SWEIS Expanded Operation Alternative (DOE 1999). 

2.1.2 Waste Management

Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no change in the types or quantities of solid, liquid, 

radioactive, mixed, or hazardous wastes associated with nanotechnology-related research at SNL/NM. 
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2.1.3 Water Use and Wastewater

The No Action Alternative would result in no change in water use or wastewater generation at SNL/NM, 

which would continue as described in the Expanded Operations Alternative of the SWEIS (DOE 1999). 

2.1.4 Human Health and Safety

Worker health and safety precautions and controls for current operations are implemented according to 

the SNL Environment, Safety, and Health (ES&H) Manual (SNL 2003) and supplemental job-specific 

procedures. Each major piece of process equipment has an operating procedure.

Operations that employ laser and x-ray hazards are performed using appropriate administrative controls 

and engineered barriers. These controls include, but are not limited to, operator training and shielding of 

personnel according to current requirements, including equipment housing that shields the operator from 

laser beam or x-ray exposure.

2.2 PROPOSED ACTION CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

Under the Proposed Action, the CINT Core Facility would be constructed on a 20-acre DOE-owned 

parcel of land on the west side of Eubank Boulevard, north of the entrance to KAFB. This one-story 

facility would be approximately 90,000 square feet (ft2) (8,360 square meters [m2]) in size. It would 

include clean rooms for nanofabrication, characterization, and lithography, as well as laboratories for 

general purpose chemistry, biology, electronic, and physical measurement activities. Figure 2.2-1

provides a general location map for SNL/NM, and Figure 2.2-2 presents the location of the DOE-owned 

parcel on which the CINT Core Facility would be built. No construction or renovation would be required 

to establish CINT Gateway to Sandia Facility activities within the IMRL.

2.2.1 Construction

For the purpose of this assessment, it as assumed that the entire 20-acre parcel would be disturbed. With 

the exception of the 183,000 ft2 (17,000 m

2

) that would be needed to accommodate the building, parking 

lot, utilities, drainage, and other permanent features, the site would be restored using native or adapted 

plant species.

2.2.2 Construction Air Conformity

Bernalillo County has been designated as a maintenance area under the Clean Air Act for carbon

monoxide (CO) emissions and is in attainment for other federally regulated pollutants. Trucks and

construction equipment would generate CO emissions. Estimated hours of operation for diesel and

gasoline engines and subsequent CO emissions that would result from project construction are included in 

Table 2.2.-1.
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Figure 2.2-1. Location Map of the SNL/NM Technical Areas
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Figure 2.2-2. CINT Core Facility Site Map
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The New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC), Title 20, Part 11.04, (20 NMAC 11.04), entitled 

General Conformity, implements Section 176(c) of the Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C 7401 et seq), 

and regulations under 40 CFR 51, Subpart W, with respect to conformity of general Federal action in 

Bernalillo County. Regulation 20 NMAC Part 11.04.II.1.2, paragraph B, establishes the emission

threshold of 100 tons per year (TPY) of CO at SNL/NM that would trigger the requirement to conduct a 

conformity analysis. As shown in Table 2.2-1, the total CO releases for this project are anticipated to be 

approximately 6.63 tons throughout the life of the construction project, which is substantially below the 

100 TPY threshold; therefore, a conformity analysis is not required.

Table 2.2-1. Estimated CO Emissions Associated with CINT Core Facility Construction Activities

1-Year Construction Activity 

(assumes 21 work day months 

or 252 days)

Total Annual 

Hrs. of 

Operation

Equipment 

Emission 

factors*

Est. Total Annual 

CO Emissions (total 

lbs. per year)

Est. Total Annual 

CO Emissions (total 

TPY)

Assumptions for Diesel Vehicles Emissions

7-Diesel units – (trucks for 

transportation of materials to site 

throughout life of construction 

phase)

3528

(or ≈ 2 hrs/day 

each for 252 

days)

.11 388 0.194

8-Diesel units – (dozers, 

backhoes, graders, dump trucks to 

grade and lay foundation)

800

(or ≈ 5 hrs/day 

each for 20 

days)

.11 88 0.044

6-Diesel units – (dozers, 

backhoes, graders, dump trucks 

for construction of buildings)

10,584

(or ≈ 7 hrs/day 

each for 252 

days)

.11 1164 0.582

Total Diesel units (21) 14,912 N/A 1640 0.82

Assumptions for Gasoline Vehicles Emissions

60-Light Gasoline vehicles -

(worker personal vehicles) 

18,000

(or ≈ 1 hr 

each/day for 

300 days)

.48 8,640 4.320

24-Light Gasoline units -

(vehicles, snack wagons, light 

commercial vans)

6048

(or ≈ 1 hr/day 

each for 252 

days)

.48 2903 1.451

2-Hand tampers 160

(or ≈ 4 hrs/day 

each for 20 

days)

.48 77 .038

Total Gas units (86) 24,208 N/A 11,620 5.81

Total Estimated CO Emissions During Construction Phase 6.63 tons 

*CO emission factors are based on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Vehicle and Fuel Emission Laboratory (Ann Arbor, 

Michigan) average emission rates for idling vehicles (EPA’s AP-42, 5th Edition, January 1995). CO emissions for light-duty trucks are estimated 

at 219 grams/hr, for heavy-duty gas vehicles at 245 grams/hour, and for heavy-duty diesel vehicles at 50 grams/hr. 

Calculations are based on a conversion factor of 0.035 ounce per gram (grams x 0.035) divided by 16 (ounces/lbs.) times hours of operation 

divided by 2,000 (lbs./ton) to obt ain tons/yr. for the project.
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2.2.3 Construction Waste Management

It is anticipated that construction activities would result in the generation of non-hazardous wastes 

(primarily construction debris and sanitary wastewater). The Proposed Action would result in the 

generation of approximately 810 tons (734,830 kg) of construction debris, which would consist of 

packaging material including wood crates, cardboard, and plastic; scrap material such as electrical wire, 

insulation, gypsum drywall, floor tile, carpet, scrap metal, and empty adhesive and paint containers; and 

concrete debris resulting from the construction equipment wash-down process following pours. 

Recyclable material would be separated, and the remaining waste transported to the KAFB landfill or 

other appropriate construction waste landfills for disposal.

2.2.4 Construction Water Use and Liquid Effluents

Water use would increase slightly during Proposed Action construction activities due to additional

construction personnel onsite and water requirements related to installation and adjustments in the 

mechanical and plumbing systems of the proposed CINT Core Facility. Water would also be used for dust 

control as appropriate. No long-term increase in water use would result from construction activities.

2.2.5 Construction Worker Health and Safety

Construction activities would incorporate all applicable health and safety standards common to each of 

the construction disciplines employed in the project and would follow all Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA) standards for health and safety practices. The potential for worker exposure to 

hazardous materials is anticipated to be minimal.

2.3 PROPOSED ACTION OPERATIONS

Under the Proposed Action, nanotechnology research would be conducted at the CINT Core Facility and 

at the CINT Gateway to Sandia located in the IMRL in TA-1 at SNL/NM. 

Nanotechnology refers to a branch of research that examines processes and creates a variety of products at 

the nanometer (nm) scale. One nm (1 x 10-9 m) is approximately 1/100,000 the width of a human hair. 

At this scale, materials exhibit improved properties. This allows for the development of a wide variety of 

new materials and processes that would otherwise be impossible.

Research at the CINT facilities at SNL/NM would focus on five primary areas: 

• Nano-Bio-Micro Interfaces 

• Complex Functional Nanomaterials

• Nanomechanics

• Nanophotonics and Nanoelectronics

• Theory and Simulation

Each area is described briefly below.

Nano-Bio-Micro Interfaces. This area of research examines the physical interface between biomolecular 

systems and nanoscale synthetic materials; the length-scale interface that bridges nanoscale materials to 
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the micro (and larger) world of devices and applications; and the conceptual interface of how biological 

systems can inspire the creation of new materials and new functions. The focus of this research area is to 

develop materials based on attributes of biological systems by control of the interfaces.

Complex Functional Nanomaterials. This research area focuses on the integration of multiple materials 

and structures across nano- to macro-length scales to promote complex and collective interactions and 

develop improved properties. Efforts would include research in synthetic chemistry and self- and

directed-assembly. Research at the SNL/NM CINT facilities would include exploration of self-assembled 

porous and composite nanostructures; films; quantum dots and arrays; magnetic field structured solids; 

micromachining; advanced lithography; and simulations of a variety of substances.

Nanomechanics. Nanomechanics research examines the production of mechanical work at the nanoscale 

and the transfer of energy from nano- to microscale systems. Researchers seek to learn from nature how 

to better fabricate and utilize nanoscale mechanical systems by examining the unique mechanical 

properties of nanostructured materials and designing tools to perform work and probe material properties. 

Nanophotonics and Nanoelectronics. This area of research focuses on understanding electronic,

magnetic, and optical phenomena and materials properties at the nanoscale. Activities would include 

research in electrical characterization and laser spectroscopy.

Theory and Simulation. This research area will be closely coupled to the experimental activities within 

the four research areas described above. It will use experiments to verify models, use modeling and 

simulation to understand experiments, analyze data in terms of unifying models, and serve as a centerwide resource supporting the CINT user program.

Operations related to these focus areas at the CINT Core Facility would be based on the following 

activities:

• Research into applications for computing, communications, remote sensing, advanced solid-state 

lighting, and novel photovoltaics

• Research involving organic materials for their unique molecula r scale properties, thereby creating 

opportunities for the development of novel composite and structured materials for electronic and 

photonic applications

• Projects that create cross-disciplinary teams composed of leading researchers from academic and 

government labs throughout the country and providing a wide variety of experience with

nanomaterial synthesis, processing, and characterization rarely available at a single institution or 

location

• Research into new approaches to combine materials, in structures ranging in size from nanometer to 

micron length (10 –6) length scales, to discover improved material properties and functions

• Research into the integration of materials to discover interactions that lead to the development of new 

devices and concepts

• Research providing the tools for nanotechnology through measurement and characterization,

computation and simulation, and fabrication of nanomaterials

• Research into how materials respond at the nanoscale compared to larger scale properties
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• Research using a variety of techniques for observing nanomechanical response such as electron, xray, photon, neutron, and ion analysis techniques, and advanced diagnostics and microscale test

devices to understand how materials interact at this level

• Research into controlling the properties of materials at the nanometer scale to allow greater

integration of different materials, while developing stronger, tougher, and more wear-resistant 

systems

• Research designed to use concepts learned from biological systems in nanoscience and

microengineering

• Multidisciplinary research collaborations that would use biological systems as models for complex 

and collective phenomena used in nanotechnology research

• Research to understand the properties and behavior of nanometer scale structures on time scales that 

are ideally matched to computer simulation and modeling methods

• Research into methods to connect nanometer scale modeling and simulation to larger length scale 

materials properties

• Development of methods to predict the properties of systems that contain dissimilar materials

• Understanding the reasons for changes in material properties or structures as they interact with the 

environment

The use of microbiological materials to provide models of natural design systems as well as the potential 

of these materials to provide opportunities to learn from the mechanics of nature are two examples of the 

importance of using microbiological materials in nanotechnology research. Microbiological materials 

expected to be available to support research at the CINT Core Facility, however, would be limited to 

materials typically found in undergraduate and secondary educational training and teaching laboratories 

(BSL-1). Operation of such a laboratory in the CINT Core Facility would follow a strict adherence to the 

practices and techniques established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 1999). 

Although the risks are small, research staff working with these materials would be trained and proficient 

in safely handling the materials. All waste generated in the use of these materials would also follow strict 

disinfectant procedures.

The operation of such laboratories as would be installed in the CINT Core Facility has been accomplished 

over decades of experience with little risk to either the workers or the public. SNL/NM would ensure that 

operations involving these materials will meet all local, state, and federal regulatory requirements for the 

transport, use, storage, and disposal of these materials.

The CINT Gateway to Sandia Facility would consist of an existing office space in the IMRL. This 

facility would enable CINT researchers (including visitors, post-doctoral associates, and students engaged 

in collaborative projects) to benefit from the specialized microfabrication and nanomaterials capabilities 

and expertise located within SNL/NM. The IMRL currently houses many existing nanomaterials assets, 

including chemical and physical materials synthesis, scanning probe diagnostics, and laser-based and 

surface spectroscopies.
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2.3.1 Air Quality

For the purpose of this assessment, air emissions were evaluated according to the same methodology used 

for the SNL/NM SWEIS (Section 2.1.1). Potential hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions are provided 

in Table 2.3.1-1. 

Table 2.3.1-1. CINT HAP Dispersion Modeling Results

Compound

OEL/100

(mg/m3)

Maximum

Impact*

(mg/m3) Percent of OEL/100

Ammonia 350 1.2 0.34

Chlorine 30 1.2 3.97

Silane 70 0.6 0.83

Nitrous Oxide 450 1.3 0.29

Boron Trichloride 70 1.2 1.70

Halocarbon 23 100 2.4 2.45

Halocarbon 14 100 2.6 2.61

Sulfur Hexafluoride 60000 5.6 0.01

Isopropyl Alcohol 9800 3.9 0.04

Methanol 2000 3.9 0.20

Methylisobutylketone 1000 0.04 0.004

n-methylpyrrolidinone 1000 0.4 0.04

Hexamethyldisilazane 450 0.1 0.02

Trichloroethylene 1000 0.4 0.04

Acetone 24000 7.9 0.03

Potassium Hydroxide 20 0.3 1.49

Hydrochloric Acid 70 0.3 0.43

Sulfuric Acid 10 2.0 20.15

Hydrogen Peroxide 14 0.9 6.19

Nitric Acid 50 0.3 0.60

Ethanol 19000 10.2 0.05

Chlorobenzene 3500 0.1 0.002

Toluene 2000 1.1 0.05

Dimethylformamide (DMF) 2000 0.05 0.002

Hexanes 18000 2.0 0.01

Hydrofluoric Acid 25 0.6 2.36

Tetraethoxysilane 8500 2.3 0.03

 * Maximum eight-hour concentration

2.3.2 Waste Management

Under the Proposed Action, CINT Core Facility operations would generate 24,600 lbs (11,182 kg) of 

solid waste annually. This estimate represents a conservative assumption that the facility would be 

occupied to capacity throughout the year; however, waste is expected to be less because many of the 

personnel using the facility would be visitors and would be present only part of the time. Hazardous 

waste would be generated at approximately 2,640 lbs (1,200 kg) per year and would be conveyed to 

SNL/NM waste management facilities for disposal.
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2.3.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents

Operations under the Proposed Action would use up to 470,400 gal (1.78 million L) of potable water per 

year (assuming continuous maximum occupancy) and 2.24 MGY (8.47 million L/yr) of process water. 

Of this total, water use and wastewater generation by current activities that would be transferred to the 

CINT are estimated at 393,600 gal (1.5 million L). For the purposes of this assessment, it is assumed that 

all water utilized at the facility will be discharged as wastewater; however, current water management 

goals at SNL/NM include a 30 percent reduction in wastewater generation through wastewater recycling 

and other methodologies.

2.3.4 Human Health and Safety

Worker health and safety precautions and controls for current operations are implemented according to 

the SNL ES&H Manual (SNL 2000b) and supplemental job-specific procedures. Each major piece of 

process equipment has an operating procedure. 

Operations that employ laser and x-ray equipment are performed using appropriate administrative hazard 

controls and engineered barriers. BSL-1 safety precautions would be in effect for all biological work at 

the CINT Core Facility. Worker health and safety procedures would be revised if new processes or 

equipment are introduced.
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3.0 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The following sections include discussions of the local environment currently and potentially affected by 

the construction and operation of the CINT. The resource areas described are specific to SNL/NM sitewide conditions and, where applicable, specific to the proposed CINT project area located near TA-I (but 

outside the eastern boundary of KAFB).

A number of other resources, summarized below, were considered but are not discussed in detail because 

they would not be substantially impacted by the Proposed Action or No Action Alternative. The 

proposed buildings and facilities that would be constructed under the Proposed Action are located in a 

previously disturbed area just outside the eastern boundary of KAFB and west of Eubank Boulevard. 

Surrounding areas have been disturbed as a result of development of each area.

• Geology and Soils Resources − Previous surveys discussed in the Environmental Information 

Document and the SNL/NM SWEIS identified no impacts to the geology and soils in the areas of the 

proposed CINT Project. No prime farmlands exist at SNL/NM.

• Surface Water − Natural water flow has already been interrupted by the previous site disturbances. 

Construction of the CINT will include grading and drainage for storm water management. Storm

water would be handled in accordance with best management practices. A National Pollutant 

Discharge Elimination System Construction Permit (NPDES) and an associated Storm Water 

Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPP) would be required. If a Multi-sector Storm Water General

(NPDES) Permit is required, then the existing general SWPP Plan would be modified.

• Groundwater – Neither construction nor operation of the CINT Project would involve discharges to 

or withdrawals from groundwater. No substantial sources of potential groundwater contamination 

would be created or altered.

• Biological Resources – A scoping survey was conducted for the proposed CINT Facility in August 

2002 without detecting any protected or sensitive species in the project area. A comprehensive 

biological survey will be conducted prior to construction if the Proposed Action is selected to ensure 

biological conditions have not changed (Salinas 2002).

• Cultural Resources – The proposed site of the CINT Facility has been surveyed for surface cultural 

resources as part of large survey conducted in 1990 (Gerow 1990). No cultural resources were 

recorded, and subsurface resources are possible but not anticipated. 

• Socioeconomics − Construction of the facility would require the services of architectural, engineering, 

and construction firms; however, such support would be temporary. New and upgraded facilities 

would be staffed primarily with existing personnel. No substantial long-term increases in

employment or substantial increases in funding would result from the Proposed Action and the No 

Action Alternative.

3.1 GENERAL SITE DESCRIPTION

The CINT Core Facility would be located adjacent to SNL/NM, but offsite just outside the eastern

boundary of KAFB. The CINT Core Facility would be constructed on a 20-acre plot of land west of 

Eubank Boulevard and north of the Air Force Safety Center near the KAFB Eubank Gate (see Figures 2.1 

and 2.2).
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Albuquerque

Albuquerque is located in Bernalillo County, in north-central New Mexico, and is the state’s largest city, 

with a population of approximately 448,607. The Sandia Mountains rise steeply immediately north and 

east of the city, with the Manzano Mountains extending to the southeast. The Rio Grande runs southward 

through Albuquerque and is the primary river traversing central New Mexico. Nearby communities 

include Rio Rancho and Corrales to the northwest, the Pueblo of Sandia and town of Bernalillo to the 

north, and the Pueblo of Isleta and towns of Los Lunas and Belen to the south (DOE 1999).

SNL/NM

SNL/NM is located within KAFB, approximately 7 miles (mi) southeast of downtown Albuquerque. 

KAFB, including SNL/NM, is situated on a high, arid alluvial fan in the foothills of the Manzano 

Mountains. The alluvial fan slopes gently to the west to the Rio Grande. There are five SNL/NM TAs 

that cover approximately 2,560 acres of DOE-owned land. TAs-I, - II, and -IV encompass approximately 

645 acres. TA-III encompasses approximately 1,890 acres, and TA-V encompasses approximately 25 

acres. Of these TAs, the CINT Project is closest to, but north of, TA-I and outside the eastern boundary 

of KAFB. 

3.2 AIRQUALITY

Meteorological Conditions

SNL/NM is located along the eastern margin of the regional area known as the Albuquerque Basin. The 

geography of this area, which consists of mountains, canyons, and the Rio Grande Valley, greatly 

influences the meteorological conditions. Temperature inversions occur during the winter months, 

restricting dispersion and dilution of air pollutants in the basin area by trapping the pollution near the 

surface. The most important implication of meteorological variation across SNL/NM, however, is the 

effect of wind variability on transport and dispersion of pollutants. Wind characteristics vary across 

SNL/NM based on proximity to topographical and urban features. The mountains and canyons to the east 

create the predominant wind directions at SNL/NM. Dispersion occurs as a result of wind patterns 

developing from the complex interactions of the numerous geographic features. When constituents are 

emitted to the atmosphere, they are carried away from the source by wind transport and diluted by mixing 

with the ambient air.

Meteorological Monitoring

Meteorological monitoring commenced at SNL/NM in January 1994. The 8-tower meteorological 

monitoring network consists of six 10-meter towers, one 50-meter tower, and one 60-meter tower. All 

towers are instrumented at the 3- and 10-meter levels. Instrumentation is also installed at the top of the 

tall towers. Meteorological variables measured at all tower levels include wind speed, wind direction, and 

temperature. Relative humidity, precipitation, and atmospheric pressure are also measured. 

Air Quality Standards

SNL/NM is located in the Albuquerque Middle Rio Grande Intrastate Air Quality Control Region. Under 

the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), Bernalillo County is currently in maintenance 

status for the CO NAAQS. Depending on emission levels, modification to existing sources or

construction of new sources emitting CO may require a general or transportation conformity analysis as 
Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies Environmental Assessment March 2003

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well as additional levels of controls to comply with the NAAQS. In addition, modification to existing 

sources or construction of new sources emitting the other criteria pollutants (sulfur dioxide, nitrogen 

dioxide, ozone, particulate matter, and lead) for which a pre-construction permit must be obtained are 

required to comply with the NAAQS. 

3.3 LAND USE

Land ownership on KAFB is divided primarily among the U.S. Air Force (USAF), DOE, the Bureau of 

Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). The USAF and DOE are the principal land users 

within KAFB. Land use is established through coordination and planning agreements between these 

agencies. The CINT Core Facility would be outside of the boundaries of KAFB on DOE-owned land. 

Land use in the general vicinity includes commercial, light industrial, and research operations as well as 

single-unit and multiple -unit residential development.

3.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT

SNL/NM waste management activities consist of managing, storing, and preparing for offsite disposal of 

all wastes in accordance with applicable Federal and state regulations, permits obtained under these 

regulations, and DOE Orders.

Typical waste categories generated onsite include:

• Radioactive waste includes low-level radioactive waste (LLW), low-level mixed waste (LLMW), 

transuranic (TRU) waste, and mixed transuranic (MTRU) waste

• Hazardous waste includes Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) listed waste (chemical), 

Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)-listed waste, and biohazardous waste (medical)

• Non-hazardous waste includes solid waste deposited in local landfills (trash and debris) and sewage 

waste

• Recyclable material includes lead, ignitable liquids, solvents, oils, scrap metal, paper, and plastics

• Spent nuclear fuel

3.5 SITE SERVICES

Security

Security for CINT Core Facility operations would be provided by SNL/NM’s security force, which would 

be available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Fire protection would be provided either through an agreement 

with the USAF or through arrangements through the City of Albuquerque. Qualified researchers 

provided access to the CINT Core Facility and the CINT Gateway to Sandia Facility would have to meet 

DOE and SNL security procedures and requirements.
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4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

This chapter describes and compares the environmental consequences of the No Action Alternative and 

the Proposed Action for the CINT. Descriptions of the Proposed Action and No Action Alternative are 

provided in Chapter 2 of this EA, and affected aspects of the environment are discussed in Chapter 3. 

The following sections compare potential environmental consequences of the two alternatives. Other 

aspects of the environment were considered in the scoping of the analysis; however, only those potentially 

affected by the proposed project are discussed in this chapter.

The Proposed Action and No Action Alternatives would both result in air emissions, waste generation, 

process and facility water use, and discharge of liquid effluents into the Albuquerque sanitary sewer 

system. Table 4-1 comparatively summarizes air emissions and other waste volumes related to operations 

under the No Action Alternative and the Proposed Action. The issues summarized in the table are

addressed in the following sections.

Table 4-1. Comparison of Estimated Annual Emissions and Wastes for the No Action and 

Proposed Action Alternatives

Emissions and Wastes No Action Alternative Proposed Action

Construction and Demolition

Air Emissions/Conformity NA 6.63 tons CO

Construction Debris NA 810 tons (73,636 kg)

Operations

Air Quality NA See Section 4.3.1

Solid Waste NA 24,600 lbs (11,182 kg)

Hazardous Waste NA 2,640 lbs (1,200 kg)

Water Use

Potable

Process

393,600 gal/yr (1.5 million L/yr)

NA

470,400 gal (1.78 million L/yr)

2.24 mgy (8.47 million L/yr)

Wastewater Generation

Potable

Process

393,600 gal/yr (1.5 million L/yr)

NA

470,400 gal (1.78 million L/yr)

2.24 mgy (8.47 million L/yr)

4.1 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE OPERATIONS

Description of the projected environmental effects of the No Action Alternative is based on information 

available from the SNL/NM SWEIS (DOE 1999) and the Conceptual Design Report for the CINT (SNL 

2001). The following sections are organized according to environmental issues. 

4.1.1 Air Emissions

The SWEIS examined approximately 465 chemicals used at SNL/NM as potential components of routine 

emissions (Section 5.3.8 of the SWEIS). Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs; a time-weighted average 

concentration for a conventional 8-hour workday and a 40-hour workweek, to which it is believed that 

nearly all workers may be repeatedly exposed, day after day, without adverse effect) were identified for 

each of these chemicals, and a “screening” value of the OEL divided by 100 (for conservatism) was 

established for determining whether emissions factors for each chemical should be developed. This 
Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies Environmental Assessment March 2003

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“screening” value is called the Threshold Emission Value (TEV). The initial screening was based on total 

inventory (in essence, this screening assumed that the entire quantity of a given chemical would be 

emitted). A chemical passed the screen if a theoretical release of the entire inventory did not cause the 

TEV to be exceeded. Facility-specific emissions factors were developed for those chemicals that did not 

pass the initial screening. After applying facility-specific emissions factors, chemicals were screened 

again to determine whether the TEV was exceeded. Chemicals also passed this screen if the TEV was not 

exceeded. The SWEIS concluded that normal operations at SNL/NM, including the No Action

Alternative for this EA, would not likely result in degradation of air quality.

4.1.2 Waste Management

The No Action Alternative would not result in changes to existing waste storage, transportation, or other 

related processes anticipated under the No Action Alternative. Waste volumes that would be generated 

under the No Action Alternative, including non-hazardous and hazardous waste are described in Section 

2.1.2 and summarized in Table 4-1. All wastes would continue to be managed by SNL/NM’s waste 

management program. 

4.1.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents

Potable water use and wastewater generation associated with existing nanotechnology research would 

continue at 393,600 gal (1.5 million L) , assuming that all potable water is eventually discharged as waste, 

under the No Action Alternative. The No Action Alternative would not result in a change in water use or 

wastewater generation.

4.1.4 Human Health and Safety

Current operations utilize hazardous chemicals and other substances that may affect human health and 

safety.

Air is the primary pathway for possible worker or public exposure; however, no adverse human health 

effects would be expected to occur from HAP exposure resulting from the No Action Alternative. The 

chemicals and solvents used in the current processes are common industrial materials. 

Engineering and administrative controls are enforced at the facilities associated with the current

nanotechnology research to ensure that workers are not exposed to chemicals beyond the permissible 

exposure limits (PELs) established by the OSHA. Hazards from chemicals in SNL/NM facilities are 

controlled through engineered barriers, such as fume hoods, local exhaust ventilation, closed containers, 

closed loop systems, and volume limits. Potential scenarios for accidental exposure to chemicals would 

continue to be handled in accordance with provisions outlined in the SNL/NM ES&H Manual, Chapter 6, 

Industrial Hygiene (SNL, 2003).

According to the SNL/NM SWEIS (DOE, 1999), impacts for the entire SNL/NM workforce are projected 

to be zero fatalities per year and 1 or 2 confirmed chemical exposures annually. No measurable effects on 

worker health and safety are anticipated to result from chemical exposure under the No Action

Alternative. 

4.2 PROPOSED ACTION CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

Construction of the CINT Core Facility under the Proposed Action would result in short-term 

environmental effects, including noise generated by construction, fugitive dust, and safety issues 
Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies Environmental Assessment March 2003

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associated with construction personnel on the site. However, these effects would be minimal and 

confined to relatively small areas for short periods of time.

4.2.1 Construction Air Conformity

No discernible changes in air quality are anticipated as a result of Proposed Action construction activities. 

CO emissions from equipment used for construction would affect air emissions under the Proposed

Action. However, construction-related CO emissions are projected to be approximately 6.63 tons over 

the life of the project. This amount is less than the 100 TPY threshold requiring a conformity analysis; 

therefore, a conformity analysis is not required. 

4.2.2 Construction Water Use and Liquid Effluents

Water use for installation of equipment and dust suppression would occur during the construction process. 

The short-term increase in water use due to construction activities is anticipated to be negligible in 

comparison to SNL/NM’s site-wide water use. 

4.2.3 Construction Waste Management

Generation and proper management of construction wastes related to the Proposed Action would not 

exceed the capacity or greatly reduce the life of existing waste management systems. Typical

construction debris, as identified in Section 2.4.5, would be generated from demolition and building 

renovations and modifications under the Proposed Action. Construction, renovation, and demolition 

activities would result in the generation of approximately 810 tons (73,636 kg) of solid waste.

Construction projects are common at SNL/NM; wastes associated with construction are considered

routine and are managed according to prescribed procedure. Waste generated during construction of the 

Proposed Action would be stored in dumpsters prior to disposition. Current plans call for disposal of 

standard construction waste in a permitted construction waste landfill.

4.2.4 Construction Health and Safety

Little effect on worker health and safety is anticipated as a result of construction activities associated with 

the Proposed Action. Workers would likely have limited, if any, exposure to chemical hazards during 

construction of the CINT Core Facility. Hazards would be limited to those commonly associated with 

construction activities and would be analyzed prior to performing the work. Worker protection measures, 

including hazard training, work procedures, and the use of PPE, would be enforced. 

4.3 PROPOSED ACTION OPERATIONS

Implementation of the Proposed Action would result in minor expansion of current operations and 

primarily involves relocation of activities currently performed at various locations at SNL/NM to the 

CINT Core Facility and the CINT Gateway Facility, with the added benefit of new research capabilities 

and the ability to more effectively integrate research at SNL/NM with that conducted by other institutions. 

The following sections describe the environmental consequences of increased production that could result 

from implementation of the Proposed Action.
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4.3.1 Air Emissions

The air quality assessment found that the CINT would not adversely affect the ambient air quality in the 

region. Additionally, the HAP analysis completed for the proposed CINT showed compliance with the 

Albuquerque Environmental Health Department (AEHD) HAP policy for all potential HAP impacts.

The HAP emissions associated with the proposed action were initially compared to the OEL divided by 

15 to determine if modeling was required, as outlined by the AEHD Hazardous Air Pollutant Policy 

(dated April 16, 1998). Based on this evaluation, emissions of HAPs from CINT operations do not 

require modeling. However, HAP modeling was conducted to ensure that emissions of HAPs from CINT 

operations would not adversely affect the surrounding air quality. Modeled HAP impacts were compared 

to the ambient threshold of the OEL divided by 100. Dispersion modeling results for HAPs are

summarized in Table 4.3.1-1. The maximum 8-hour impacts do not exceed 1/100 of the OEL; therefore 

compliance with the AEHD HAP policy is demonstrated. 

Table 4.3.1-1. CINT HAP Dispersion Modeling Results

Compound

OEL/100

(mg/m3)

Maximum

Impact*

(mg/m3) Percent of OEL/100

Ammonia 350 1.2 0.34

Chlorine 30 1.2 3.97

Silane 70 0.6 0.83

Nitrous Oxide 450 1.3 0.29

Boron Trichloride 70 1.2 1.70

Halocarbon 23 100 2.4 2.45

Halocarbon 14 100 2.6 2.61

Sulfur Hexafluoride 60000 5.6 0.01

Isopropyl Alcohol 9800 3.9 0.04

Methanol 2000 3.9 0.20

Methylisobutylketone 1000 0.04 0.004

n-methylpyrrolidinone 1000 0.4 0.04

Hexamethyldisilazane 450 0.1 0.02

Trichloroethylene 1000 0.4 0.04

Acetone 24000 7.9 0.03

Potassium Hydroxide 20 0.3 1.49

Hydrochloric Acid 70 0.3 0.43

Sulfuric Acid 10 2.0 20.15

Hydrogen Peroxide 14 0.9 6.19

Nitric Acid 50 0.3 0.60

Ethanol 19000 10.2 0.05

Chlorobenzene 3500 0.1 0.002

Toluene 2000 1.1 0.05

Dimethylformamide (DMF) 2000 0.05 0.002

Hexanes 18000 2.0 0.01

Hydrofluoric Acid 25 0.6 2.36

Tetraethoxysilane 8500 2.3 0.03

 * Maximum eight-hour concentration

Potential maximum criteria pollutant impacts would occur along the fence line or just beyond the fence 

line to the west of the proposed emission source. Potential impacts of NO2, SOx, and PM10 exceeded the 

EPA Significance Levels, which requires further cumulative modeling. The results of further cumulative 

modeling are presented in Table 4.3.1-2. The purpose of 20 NMAC 11.41 is to show that a source will 

not cause or significantly contribute to air pollution in violation of any NAAQS.
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Cumulative modeling was completed to determine if the proposed CINT contributed to an exceedance of 

the NAAQS for NO2, SO2, and PM10.

Table 4.3.1-2. CINT Secondary Modeling Results

Pollutant

Averaging

Period

NAAQS

(mg/m3)

Maximum

Impacts

(mg/m3)* Percent of NAAQS

NO2 24 Hours

Annual

156

78.0

95.2

35.4

61%

45%

SOx 3 Hours

24 Hours

Annual

1,300

218

43.5

85.1

12.1

2.86

7%

6%

7%

PM10 24 Hours

Annual

150

50

81.1

21.3

54%

43%

 * = Includes background concentrations

The criteria pollutant impacts from the proposed CINT combined with background concentrations are 

below the NAAQS, as shown in Table 4.3.1-2. Thus, compliance with the NAAQS, and therefore 20 

NMAC 11.41, has been demonstrated. The maximum total potential impacts would occur to the west of 

the proposed CINT, along the KAFB fence line. 

4.3.2 Waste Management

Under the Proposed Action, CINT operations would generate 24,600 lbs (11,182 kg) of solid waste 

annually. Collection and disposal of these wastes would remain within the capacity of existing facilities 

and operations.

Hazardous waste would be generated at approximately 2,640 lbs (1,200 kg) per year. Management of this 

quantity of waste remains within the capacity of existing hazardous waste management systems at

SNL/NM.

4.3.3 Water Use and Liquid Effluents

Under the Proposed Action, the CINT Core Facility would use up to 470,400 gal (1.78 million L) of 

potable water per year (assuming continuous maximum occupancy) and 2.24 mgy (8.47 million L/yr) of 

process water. Of this total, water use and wastewater generation by current activities that would be 

transferred to the CINT are estimated at 393,600 gal (1.5 million L). Water use under the Proposed 

Action would represent an increase of approximately 0.01 percent in SNL/NM’s total water use in FY 

2000 (SNL 2001 SWEIS AR) from approximately 416 MGY (1.57 billion L/yr). Liquid effluent 

generated by the Proposed Action is assumed to be roughly equivalent to water use for the purpose of this 

assessment; however, current water management goals at SNL/NM include a 30 percent reduction in 

wastewater generation through wastewater recycling and other methodologies. 

The increase in water use would not substantially affect current or projected water supply to SNL/NM, 

and increase in liquid effluent generation would not affect SNL/NM’s ability to discharge wastewater. 
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No modifications to either system, other than routine connections between the systems and the facilities, 

would be required. Both the increase in water use and the decrease in effluent discharge would be minor.

4.3.4 Human Health and Safety

The Proposed Action would not result in substantially increased risks to workers and the public. Analysis 

of human health impacts in the SNL/NM SWEIS supports the conclusion that any increase in human 

health risk would be a result of a larger employee population, rather than introduction of new or unique 

hazards. Operations and processes with the potential to affect health and safety would be performed using 

appropriate administrative controls and engineered barriers. Workers and visiting researchers would be 

instructed in applicable health and safety procedures. Administrative controls would include adherence to 

worker health and safety precautions and controls according to the current ES&H Manual, supplements, 

and additional job-specific procedures. Worker health and safety procedures will be revised, if new 

processes or equipment are introduced.

4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

The 2000 census for New Mexico reported that the average minority population within the state was 55.3 

percent of the state’s total population. Low-income populations, those households at or below an annual 

income level of $17,029, accounted for an average of 18.4 percent of the state’s population. 

Minority and low-income populations, as compared to those populations not classified as minority or lowincome, within a 1-mile, 5-mile, and 10-mile radius of CINT Core Facility are shown in Table 4.4-1. 

Table 4.4-1. Average Minority and Low-Income Populations in the CINT Core Facility Vicinity

Compared to the State Averages

1-Mile Radius 5-Mile Radius 10-Mile Radius State Average

Average Minority 

Population

49.6% 41.3% 47.3% 55.3%

Average LowIncome Population12.4% 13.6% 13.4% 18.4%

As shown by the information in Table 4.4, the average minority and low-income populations within the 

1-, 5-, and 10-mile radii do not exceed the state’s average population. Further, as indicated in Section 

4.3.4, no increased health risks to the public are anticipated; therefore, there would be no

disproportionately high negative impacts to minority or low-income populations.

4.5 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The consequences of the proposed action on air quality, water use, and liquid effluents, waste

management, and human health and safety were not substantial. These incremental effects, when taken in 

the context of other DOE, U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Federal, state, and local activities, would 

not add substantially to the cumulative impacts of these activities. Therefore, the effects of the Proposed 

Action, when combined with the effects resulting from common issues of actions taken by DOE, DoD, 

Federal, state, and local entities, do not result in cumulatively significant effects.
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4.6 ABNORMAL OCCURRENCES

Abnormal events associated with operations such as CINT may include laboratory accidents such as small 

(liter-scale) indoor chemical spills as well as other accidents associated with research activities. Such 

accidents are anticipated to be uncommon and unlikely to result in the release of substantial quantities of 

hazardous or toxic substances to the environment outside the facility. Any small-scale indoor spills 

would be handled according to existing SNL/NM procedures for such occurrences. All operations would 

be conducted according to the SNL/NM ES&H Manual (SNL 2003), which includes policies and

procedures for preventing such accidents and responding to them in the unlikely event that they should 

occur. Because the chemicals on-hand at the CINT Core Facility are generally present only in small 

quantities, it appears unlikely that abnormal occurrences associated with the CINT Core Facility would 

affect public health or safety. 
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5.0 REFERENCES

Albuquerque Environmental Health Department (AEHD), November 1995, Permit Modeling Guidelines, 

Air Pollution Control Division.

CDC, 1999, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

and National Institutes of Health, Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 4th 

Edition, May 1999.

EPA, February 1993, Guideline on Air Quality Models (Revised, including Supplements), EPA-450/2-78-

027R, Office of Air and Radiation; Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Research

Triangle Park, North Carolina.

EPA, October 1996, Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, AP-42, Volume 1: Stationary Point 

and Area Sources, Section 3.3, “Gasoline and Diesel Industrial Engines.”

EPA, July 1998, Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, AP-42, Volume 1:Stationary Point and 

Area Sources, Section 1.4, “Natural Gas Combustion.”

Salinas 2002. Stephanie Salinas. Threatened, Endangered, and Migratory Bird Literature Review 

in Support of SNA 01-0703, Letter to Joe Bonaguidi, August 14, 2002.

Scheffe, R.D., September 1988, Point Source Screening for Ozone Precursor Emissions, U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards,

Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

SNL (Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico), 2003, Sandia National Laboratories Environment,

Safety and Health Manual, Corporate Policy Requirement (CPR) 400.1.1, MN471001, latest 

issue, 2003.

SNL (Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico), 2002, Conceptual Design Report: Center for Integrated 

Nanotechnologies, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

U. S. Department of Energy, October 1999, Sandia National Laboratories/New Mexico Final Site-Wide 

Environmental Impact Statement, Albuquerque, New Mexico, DOE/EIS-0281, U. S. Department 

of Energy Albuquerque Operations Office, Albuquerque, New Mexico.