Historic Superphosphate Fertilizer Industry in S.C.

History

Phosphate fertilizers were in use as early as the late 1700's in South Carolina, as deposits of mineable phosphate ore were discovered in many areas in the Low Country. During the mid-1800's, it was discovered that mixing the raw phosphate ore with sulfuric acid produced a "super-phosphate" fertilizer that was water soluble for better absorption by crops. Also, it could be produced in a fine, dry powder state which could be more easily transported and applied to the fields.

Chem-Nuclear Site Barnwell County, South Carolina

Introduction

The Chem-Nuclear Site is a Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Facility located in Barnwell County near the town of Snelling. The facility occupies about 235 acres deeded to the state of South Carolina by Chem-Nuclear Systems (CNS). Disposal of waste began at the facility in 1971 and Chem-Nuclear Systems (CNS), currently owned by Energy Solutions, has been the sole operator since that time.