330-PS-3256 (45885AC)   Indian Springs Air Force Base, Nevada, April 20, 1952.  To reduce personnel hazards due to exposure to more than minimal amounts of atomic radiation during Atomic Energy Commission nuclear tests in 1952 at the Nevada Proving Grounds, all United States Air Force aircraft were checked for radioactive contamination after flying in the vicinity of each nuclear detonation.  When such examination of aircraft revealed an excess of radioactivity, the airplanes were decontaminated by high-pressure washing with a solution of “gunk,” a grease solvent, and water, as shown here.   Generally speaking, decontamination of aircraft is relatively simple wash-down process.  The aircraft were then returned to operational status in 24 hours or less.  Photograph released March 16, 1953.  (5/5/2015).
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