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    Introduction to Explosives

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF or read online from Scribd
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    8 views74 pages

    Brief Introduction To Explosives

    Uploaded by

    Roberto SB
    Introduction to Explosives

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF or read online from Scribd
    Flag for inappropriate content
    of 74
    aes a a FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY CONTENTS A Brief introduction to Explosives 4 ‘This work is dedicated to Tow tose This Book 3 Safety Rules =... 5 Daniel, whe fueled my curiosity, Explosives to Avoid > Pete, who shared the risk of esearch, Gloseay : 9 SL and Bil, for their help in the writing process, Descriptions and Manufacturing of Explosives, ‘and all those who developed the data “Acetone Peroxide 4 upon which this work was built Acetylene 46 Amato! 18 ‘That we may all stand on equal ground ‘Ammonium Picrate 20 and thereby consent to peaceful means ‘Ammonium Powder 23 AN Dynamite 25 ‘NFO 2 Astrolite A 29 Astroite G 31 Black Powder 33 Black Powder (dry mixed) 37 Blasting Gelatia 38 Chedditeo 40 Chedidite 90/10 a2 ‘Composition © 43 CTCL 5 DONe 46 Dithekite 50 HTD. 52 Kinepak 34 Lead Azide 38 Lead Picrate 37 Lead Styphnate 59 ‘Mercury Fulminate 63 Py 7 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Methyl Nitrate Nitrocellulose Nivoglycesia Niteoglycol Nitrostarch NIX eee NSx PETN| Picrie Acid RDXIA) ..- 7 ROX (8) Semtex 7 Silver Acetylide Silver Powder Sulfurless Black Powder Sulfurless Black Powder (i Tetrazene Terry! TNT Urea Nitrate White Powder Component Materials Sibliography 101 103 105 107 van 113 115 118 128 126 129 143 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY A BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO EXPLOSIVES Inessence, an explosive isa liquid or sole material, ora mix ture of liquid and solid materials, thatis very rapidly converted to gas or gasses by the application of heat or a sharp blow. There are two main classes of explosives: “low” and “high.” Low explosives are usually a mixture of two or more: materials that burn very rapidly. The rate of burning depends on the materials involved, how well they are mixed, the pressure they are under, and how they are iit ‘ed. Because the bura rate is dependent upon pressure, low explosives must be tightly contained before they can be made to explode. Low explosives aso are usually much less powerful then high explosives, High explosives da not "burn" as such; rather, they deto- nate, Detonation isthe instantaneous decomposition of an explosive along a shock wave. Because high explosives break down this way, itis not always necessary to contain this type of explosive in order to use it effectively High explosives are further divided inte primary, sec ondary, and tertiary explosives, Primary explosives can be made to detonate by the application of a spark or flame: They also tend to be rather sensitive to impact and friction, Primary explosives are aot usually used as demolition ot Weapon charges; instead, they are normally used to make blasting caps. Secondary explosives ate difficult or impossible to deto- Rate with a spark o flame. In order to detonate these mate tials, itis necessary to use a blasting cap to create a high- Velocity shock wave. These explosives are generally safer to FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY handle and ate used as demolition and weapon charges. “The term tertiary refers to explosives that are very difficult to detonate, The dividing line between secondary and ter- tiary is rathee vague, 50 in this book all explosives that are not primary explosives will be referred to as secondary. HOW TO USETHIS BOOK Inan effort to make this book as useful as possible, quite a bit of technical information has been included. Secause of this, it has been necessary to use unusual abbreviations and formatting. While at first this may seem to make the book somewhat difficult to read, l believe it will help prevent the reader from misunderstanding instructions. When dealing ‘with explosives, misunderstandings can be deadly. “The fist ten to discuss is the general layout ofthe book. ft thas been divided into several sections in order to make it eas ier tofind specific information. These sections are listed in the table of contents. Each section is then organized in alpha: betical order; for example, if you want to find information on nitrocellulose, turn tothe section entitled “Descriptions and Manufacturing of Explosives.” There you will find all ofthe explosives presented in alphabetical order The second item f wish to discuss is format. In several areas ofthe book, there are lists of materials presented in the following format ‘Sea water/10 u.bw. OR Water u.b.w. AND Salt u.baw. Sugani.5 ub.w. This means that either sea water OR a mixture of water AND cal could be used, but hecause sea water would be the better choice, itis listed first. Generally, materials are listed in order of preference. The word OR is used to show that one material may be substituted for another. The word AND indicates that if the material that precades its used {in this case, water), then the material immediately foliow- ing Gn this case, salt) must also be used. Indenting is also 2 3 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY sed to identify materials that may be used as substitutions The last subject chat needs to be addressed isthe meaning ‘abbreviations and terms used in this book. In the precec. ing example, the abbreviation “u.b.vw." is used, This stands for "units by weight.” For explosives that contain only liquid Gemponents a "pb." arts by volume) measurements sven aswel ‘An explanation of all abbreviations and many technical terms appears in the wlossary. Please, refer to itif you have .20y doubt avout the meaning of any term used in this boot, ‘Again, a misunderstanding could be deadly. if you come across a unfamiliar word that is not fisted in the glossary, look up in eithor a standard oF technical dictionary FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY SAFETY RULES. “The manufacture of explosives isa very hazurdous under taking. Iti also illegal without specialized permits and ficenses, Unless you have had professional trainin in chem. jstry and/or explosives manubacture, eo net attempt aay ot the procedures in this manual ‘This entire book was written with the assumption that under the circumstances when this inlormation istweeded, certain amount cf risk to lite is acceptable. None of the pre cedures inthis book could truly be called sae, hut in oi times, safety is @ hier we may not be able to aor Ignoring any of hese safety procautions ia vere goed way toget yoursel killed. Althouth you may be able to gt ass ‘wih ita few times, inthe ena it WILL catch up with you ‘ALWAYS real instr fan slat Finish bene beg ning any manufacturing process, eis alse nod ide te rere these slaty precautions berore staring any prajectia is 0 Belore beginning any manufacturing proces, ead abou the materials you are going 1 handle in the section entitled "Component Materials. yin don’t, wou ena use the storm grade of ntti acid or sutiuric aid wit fatal results Rene ber, all chemicals sed shold be “technical gradi or beter nies the instructions say otherwise Never use any:rhemical that sou have not positive i tified. Identifying.» chemical by common name alune dor net qualify as postive identiication. Atleast ance, read the shssary from start to tinish. Refer toil again if you Laver have ony doubt abet the meaning ut any term used in this hook Never mix any chemicals that you are not spex italy told tomix. Experimenting WILL et you Kile Never allow.» ton} at eon srw that has ha vont with fone chemical to contact a sernd chemical mil has Ben thoroughly cleaner! and deed Always wear briny duty sani gongs. Satey asses ae ot enh FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Always wear heawy protective gloves. Acid and acciden. tal explosions are hard on fingers, If possible, wear soft bady armor when working with explosives, This may sound extreme, but if there is an acc is dent, ou will be very glad you took this seriously ‘Do not smoke or have open flares anywhere near explosive Keep the work area neat. Accidentally spilling ane chi cal onto another could get you killed. ‘Many of the dusts and vapars from the explosives anc components are very toxic. Always have good ventilation in the work area, At the absolute least you should always wear a dust mask. 1f you plan to work with these materials for any length of time, get and read the °Material Safety Data Sheet” for that material Avoid skin Contact with both the explosives and the chemicats used to make them, as many of these substa fre very poisonous, If contact does occur, flush the area of Contact with a large amount of water. you plan to work with these materials for any length of time, getand read the ‘Material Safety Data Sheet” for that material Do not allow iron or steel tools to either bang or scrape together near explosives. They produce small hot sparks that will set off many types of explosives. Always be very gentle when haveing explosives. [Alay work in small hatches he smaller the bet This wil sipniicantly reduce iejuresin the event ofan accidental explosion. any instruction is unclear, o if any of the information provided appears inconsistent, of if you have any doubts at All then STOP then and there. Oo not attempt to use that pro- ‘edt until you are able to verify through a reliable source that what you are doing is correct and that al ofthe informa: tion provided is correct. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy af information provided, butit is always possi ble that a mistake could have been made. That is why critical iniormation such as ignition points and impact sensitivities are presented in two forms, THE FINAL RESPONSIBILITY, FOR SAFETY IS YOURS. ee FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY EXPLOSIVES TO AVOID ‘This isa listof explosives that were intentionally not cow ered in this book. tis my opinion that these explosives are too dangerousto be of substantial value tothe reader. | gave very careful thought before leaving any explosive out ofthis book. This entire book was written with the assumption that tunder the ciccumstances when this information is needed, 2 certain amount of ris to life s acceptable, None af the pro- cedures in this book could truly be called safe, but in dice times, safety is @ luxury we may not be able to afford: However, the following materials are so dangerous that | am. tunable to peovide methods of manufacture or handling that provide any reasonably degree of saety, Ammonia hydeawide and iodine—This material is EXTREMELY impact sensitive. Loud noises may cause it to detonate. Ammonium nitrate and any chlorate-—These materials may SPONTANEQUSCY ignite, They are also EXTREMELY Spark and Fiction sensitive Ammonium nitrate and copper powder—This material may SPONTANEQUSLY ignite. Iris aso EXTREMELY friction sensitive, [Nitrosugars—These materials have been known to SPON- TANEQUSLY detonate Potassium chlorate and aluminum—This material is EXTREMELY spk and ction senate “otassium chlorate and magnesium—This material is EXTREMELY sparkand ection sensitive Potassium chlorate and red phosphorus—This material 7 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY may SPONTANFOUSLY ignite. Its algo EXTREMELY spark and friction sensitive Potassium chlorate and sugar—This material is EXTRES LY sank sensitive. The smallest static elecricay spark cou. seritot Potassium chlorate and sulfur—This material may SPON: TANFOUSLY ignite, ts aso EXTREMELY spars ane fret FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY GLOSSARY acid-resistant container-- Any container made of glass, ceramic, pyrex, oF a nonstick Tellon) costed cooking pat. For ‘example, # drinking wiass or a ceramic bowl. This is referred toa88 Type container "AN—Ammoniam nitrate ANFO—Ammon vm nitrte/fuel oil, This is an explosive mixture used in large scale blesting operations approx.—Appros matel, blasting cap—a small tobe (usually metals containing a primary explosive, ts used for initiating a secondary expla: Sive,In this book, “hlasting cap" “ees toa #8 cap. booster charge— sinall cnarge ot easily detonated explosives, [tis used to initiate anather charge of explosives thatis more dificult to detonate brisance—The shuttering posver af an explosive Centigrade. A measure oi temperature ‘astable explasive—An exiilosive material that ean be: melted and poured to create shaped cha ‘ee—Cubic cent meer charge—A block or explosives ration temp. — The temperature at whieh an explo: Sive either bursts inte lame or letonates. detonation— A explosion ncearring at avery high seed 3 aresult of a sustained shock wave. Setonation cord -A spocial cot flled with PEIN used to ‘Oonect several chantesthat are tbe detonated a the sametime. Aetonation rate--See detorsti79 ve detonation velcity-the yee at which colin othe txplosive will explode: i.e. how quickly the explosion will ave tough thevwplosies , FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY detonator—See blasting cap, dilute—To make a material less concentrated by the addi- tion af water or other liquid. ‘double boiler—A method of heating. A potor pans filled with water and then a smaller pot is placed into the larger. ‘The material you wish to heat is then placed in the smaller pot. This prevents the temperature of the smaller pot fromm ris: ing above 100°C (212°F} as long as there is water in the larger pot, NOTE: The smaller container must NOT rest directly on the bottom of the larger container. A few small pebbles work fine asa spacer. Exact number unavailable. F Fahrenheit. A measure of temperature. filter paper—Paper specially designed to separate salids {rom liquids. Coffee filters are made of this materi. fiction sensitivity This ia measure of the fiction nor rally requited to detonate an explosive. In this book, this information is provided in kp, Is also given in general terms according tothe following table: kp Label Ott textemely high 1103 very high 2eto4 high 34105 ‘moderately high 4st06 moderate 5+t010 moderately low lor low g—Gram, A unit of weight or mass heat-resistant container—A cooking po/pan made of pyrex, ceramic, stainless ste}, stel, iron, or one with a non Stick (Teflon} coating. This is reterred to as a Type Il container. Do NOT use aluminum, brass, copper, oF any material not specifically listed, as it may react explosively with the mater alyou are using, heat/acid-resistant container—A cooking pot/pan made ‘of pyrex, ceramic, or one that is nonstick (Teflon) coated. This is referred to as a Type ll container. 10 ee FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY hhos—Hexamethlyleneetramine. A component of RDX. high explosive—Any explosive that detonates hat water bath—A method of heating. A small container ieset ima large pan. Hot water is slowly poured into the pan sothat tsurtounds the smaller container ice water bath—A method of cooling. A large pan filled with wate, ice, anda small amount of salt. A second pot or pam is etn the ice water. This serves to keep whatever isin the second pot or pan cod impact sensitivity-This is a measure of the impact nor- sally required to detonate an explosive In this book, this Information is provided in Nm. Itis also given in general terms according to the following table: Label extremely high wry igh high moderately high moderate Ti+ t020 moderately low 20%. low te—To cause an explosive to explode. 1kg—Kilogram, 1000 grams. A unit of weight or mass. kp Kilo-pascal Ib—Pound. 16 ounces. Aunic of weight lead block test—A test used to compare the strength of an ‘explosive. Ten grams ofthe explosive are placed into a hole that has been drilled into large block of lead. The explosive is then detonated and the size ofthe resulting cavity is mea- Sured in cubic centimeters, The larger the cavity, the more Power he exposve low explosive—An explosive that “burns” at a high s butdoes not detonate, ii ‘ml—Miilfiter. A measure of volume. '/s-—Meters pr second, A measure af velocity, sngitS.D-S.— Material Data Saity Sheet. This is a report on 'ehazacds of a given chemical. Iisa standardized publica, " FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY tin that should be available in any public rary. NUX_Nituomethane Liquid Explosive Nm—Newtonmeter.A measureof work oF enemy. oz—Ounee. Aunt of weight pebov—Parts by volume. This is analtemate method fr measuring chemical ingyedion's.Itis only sted when ll the chemicals to be used are liquids. PETN—Pentaerybritolteranitrate. An explosive, plastic—The capability toe molded as clay: ke., an explosive is plastic you can molditike cay. ‘prills—Sinall;ound pele. Primary explosive—An explosive that wll detonate if ‘exposed 6 small lame oF spatk RDX-Cyclonite. An explosive $.—Speciicpravity, See sp : 5p. gr-_Specitic gravity. This s another way of saying density ‘squib—A small tube (usually metal filled with a tow explosive that prosuces a very hot flame when initiated. Squibs are used 1o soto low explosives and in certain cir ‘cuinstances may be used to st of bigh explosives ‘sublimation—The “evaporation” ofa solid material. That is the conversion ofa solid directly to 2 gas. tertiary An explosive that cannot be made to detonate with o blasting cap alone. Instead, a booster charge must be {sed with the blasting cap. ‘ype I container—See acid-ressant container. Type tl container See heat-resistant container Type il container See headacidresstnt container utbaw—Unitsby weight w/—With Water sensitivity —This is a measure of how much water an explosive can have contact with and sil remain effective for use, The rating system used in ths book is given in the fol lowing able: 2 ee FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ‘tere ish high moderate Explanation explosive must always be stored in an airtight container or it will absorb moisture from the airand be ruined explosive may be stored in an ‘open container fora short period of time before use explosive may be stored in an ‘open container, but direct contact with water must be avoided useable when SLIGHTLY damp may be used under water FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ACETONE PEROXIDE Explosive type: high—primary Det rate: $200 mis ‘Lead block test-e.n.u. ‘Chem. formula: C6HI204 Form: white crystals eflagration temp.: 0.0. Impact sensitivity: extremely higher. Friction sensitivity: extremely high—e.n., ‘Water sensitivity: ena Initiate with: spark “There is relatively litle information ceadily available on acetone peroxide. This material is a reasonably effective pr- ‘mary explosive. However, iis highly volatile, Because ofits volatile properties, it should always be stored in an airtight MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required: Hydrogen peroxide (6% solution¥25.5 u.bw.25 p.b3. Sulfuric acid/2.25 w-b.w—1.25 pw. Acetone/1? ubw.—15.15 pb. Water Salt Other materials requived 1 acid-resistant container {ype Large pan Glass thermometer Filter paper String rod (alass or ceramic) 4 ee FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Procedure: 1. Pour the acetone into the aci¢-resistant container. 2. Gently stir the hydrogen peroxide int the acetone, 3. Fill the pan with a mixture of ice, water, and alittle salt, Place the container with the acetone/peroxide mixture into the pan of ice water and cool the acetone/peroxide mix- tureto 5°C (41°F). A freezer may be used instead of the ice ‘water bat for this step. 4. While continuing ta cool the mixture with the ice ‘water bath slowly (one drop every 10 seconds) stir he sulfu- fic acid into the acetone/peroxide mixture. This will cause the temperature ofthe acetone/peroxide mixture to rsa ithe temperature approaches 10°C (50°F), stop adding sulfuric acid and continue sticring until the mixture cools to 5°C wh. 5. After the lact of the sulfuric acid has been added, continue to stir the mixture for 5 minutes 6, The mixture must now be allowed to stand in a cold place for 24 hours. The mixture may be left in an ice water bath or it may be placed in a refrigerator for this time period, 7. Crystals of acetone peroxide will setle out of the ‘mixture. Filter these crystals out of the mixture using the filter ape. 8. Slowly pour 5 u.b.w.of COLD water over the crys. tals to wash away impurities 9. To dry the material, place the acetone peroxide in {an acid-resistant container and set the container in a pan of hot (80°C/176"F) watee. WARNING: This material isa prima- "Yexplosive~-handle very gently. 10, Store in an acid-resistanaietight container FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ACETYLENE tqurtimes as wide asthe thickness ofthe metal used to make (eerfals of the canister Explosive type high—secondary Det, rate: 2500 mis asa solid Lead block test: 300cc as a sold Chem. formula: C2H2 Form: colodess gas Deflagration temp. 335°C 1635°F) Impact sensitiviye.n Friction senstvtyens. \Water sensitivity: depends on container initiate with: special (se below) Under the proper conditions, acetylene will detonate as 3 high explosive. The acetylene must be under high pressure or high temperature tor this to work. Ihe simplest way to deto- nate acetylene is to place an explosive charge on a high-pres- sure canister of acetylene and then detonate the charge. The initiator charge placed on the canister must be powerful ‘enough to VERY FORCEFULLY breach the walls ofthe canister. MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required Acetylene (high-pressure canister) (Other materials required: Initiator charge Procedure: 1. Prepare the initiator charge NOTE:A diamond charge or saddle charge works very well 35 an initiatr, If you are not familiar with these charges, Simply wrap a ring ofa plastic explosive around the canister The ring of explosive should he atleast twice as thick and 16 W FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY AMATOL 50/50 Explosive type: high—secondary Det. rate: 6400 mvs Lead block test: 250e¢ Chem. formula: mixture of TNT and ammonium nitete Form: white or off-white solid Deflagration temp. .n.u.—over 200°C (392°R, Impact sensitivity: moderately lowe... Friction sensitivity: low—e.0. Water sensitivity: high Initiate with: blasting cap ‘Amatol isan effective way to stretch available materials if a castable explosive is needed and only alimited amount of TINTis available. Amarol contains ammonium nitrate and therefore must not be allowed to come in contact with brass ‘or copper. Amatol can be made in ratios other than 50/50. ‘Mixures containing as much as 80% by weight of ammoni um nitrate can be made, Amatols that contain a higher per centage of ammonium nitrate will he slightly ess powerful and slightly more difficultto detonate than the 50/50 mix ture, MANUFACTURE Chemicals required: TNT ub.w Ammonium nitrates wb. Water (for double boiler) ‘Other materials required Heat source: 1 lavge pan | heat-resistant container (Type I) tiring to iglass oF wood) 18 Tawa FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Glass thermometer ‘Small pebbles Procedure: 1. Fill the pan with water and several small pebbles, then place the pan on the heat source. The purpose of the pebbles is to prevent the second container from resting, Sirectly o9 the bottom ofthe fist container 2. Place the TNT into the heat-resistant container. 43, Place the heat-resistant container into the pan of water and SLOWLY heat the TNT to 90°C (194°F|; then turn offthe hest. NOTE: The TNT will melt at about 80°C (176°F). 4, Slowly str in one-tenth of the powdered armani tum nitzate, The mixture will cool and begin to harden, 5. Turn the heat on again until the temperature ofthe TNT/AN mixture returns 10 90°C (194°F), then turn the heat off again. 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all of the ammoniam nitate has been added to the mixture. 7. The explosive is now complete. t may be reheated t0 90°C (1947F) using the double boiler and spooned/poured into a storage container. 19 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY AMMONIUM PICRATE Also calted: Explosive D Explosive type: high—secondary Det rate: 7450 mis Lead block test: 280e¢ Chem. formula: CHEN4O7 Foren: yellow or red crystals ‘Deflagration temp.: 320°C (608°P) Smpact sensitivity: moderately low—e.n.u Friction sensitivity: moderate—e.n.. Water sensitivity: moderate Initiate wih: 14 (0.502) booster, blasting cap, Ammonium picrate is a moderately powerful explosive ‘with a igh detonation rate. the color ofthis material varies from yellow t0 red, The red form is less stable and easier to detonate. The color of the material is greatly affected by two factors of the manufacturing process. The fist isthe amount ‘ofammonivm hydroxide used. fan excess amount of ammo- ‘nium hydroxide is used, the material wil be red. f somewhat less is used, the material will he more yellow. The second factors the rate at which the ammonium hydroxide is added to the picric acid solution, The faster the two materials are mixed, the more red (sensitive) the material will be. The red form ofthis material can be detonated with a blasting cap. ‘The yellow form should be detonated with a 14g (0.502) booster charge MANUFACTURE Chemicals eecuited! Picric acid u.bow. Ammonium hydroxide (3% solution\/amount varies Water 20 re FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Other materials required: 1 heaacid-resistant container Type I) Heat source Stierng rod (glass or cer Large pan Filter paper Procedure: 1. Pour 4.5 u.bw. of water into the heatlacid-esistant container. Heat the water to 2 low boil 2. Remove the water from heat. Stir the picric acid int the Hot water. Not all of the picric ace erstals will dis- solve. 3. tfyou are manufacturing the yellow form, SLOWLY stirthe ammonium hydroxide solution into the water/pictic acid mixture. Stop adding ammonium hydroxide as soon the last ofthe picrc acid crystals dissolve Ifyou are manufacturing the red form, str the ammonium hydroxide solution into the water/picrc acid mixture until the last of the picric acid crystals dissolve, Then eapidly stein an ditional 4.5 u.bow. of the ammonium hydroxide solution, 4. Allow the mixture to stand forane hout. 5. Fill he pan with ice and water. 6. Place the container of water/picric acid/ammoni- lum hydroxide into the large pan of ice water. Keep the con- tainer in the ice water until the water/picrie acid/ammonium hydroxide mixture cools to 5°C (41°F), Crystals will setle out of the mixture 7. Filler the crystals out ofthe mixture using the filter Paper. These crystals are ammon um picrat. 8. The ammonium picrate must naw be dried. This fanbe done several ciferent ways. vee methods are sted A) The material ran he dried using the sun, Spread the ammonium pierate out on lange flat surface and leave in a FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY direct sunlight for several hous, This will only work if the aie temperature is over 25°C. (77), 8) The matenal can be dried using a hot water bath Place a small amount of material in the bottom af an acid resistant container (Type) Fill a pan with hot (90°C—194¢% water and then place the container in the pan. Refill the pan with hot water as it cools C) The ammonium picrate can be dried using an ‘oven. Fiest preheat the oven to 100°C (212°F), Then turn the oven off and wait 10 minutes, Place a small amount of ammonium pierate in the bottom of a large acid-resistant container. Place the container inta the oven, Let the materia} sitin the oven until either itis completely dry or the oven cools below 50°C (122°F). Ifthe ovan has cooled burt the material s not dry, take the ammonsum picrate out of the ‘even and reheat the oven to FO0% (97 2F) Again, then the toven off and wait 10 minutes before placing the mater bback in the oven. Repeat this process until the material is dry. When using this method, itis good ides ta double-check the oven temperature with a second thermometer —it the ‘oven is too hot, the material may explode. Jyou use some other method, be sure t dry the material in small batches of about -43 (0.502) sa that it should deto= rate, the damage will be minimized, FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY AMMONIUM POWDER Explosive type: few and high—secondary Det rate: 3500 m’s max. bead block test: en. (Chem. formula: mixture of NH4NO3 and charcoa! Form: dry gray or black powder Deflagration temp.: approx. 170°C (336°F) Impact sensitivity: low—e.n.4, Friction sensitivity: low —e.n. Water sensitivity: extremely high Initiate with: blasting cap, squib, or fuse This explosive contains ammonium nitrate and therefore ‘must not be allowed to come in contact with capper or brass. Ammonium powder can be used as both explosive. When used as a high explosive, a hooster charge ‘of at least 5008 (1 Ib.) should be used. Also, when this mater al s used as a high explosive, it should not be tightly packed! a this makes the material very dificult to detonate. Lastly, the finer the ammonium niteate and charcoal are powdered, the beter the explosive will work MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required: ‘Ammonium nitrate/8 5 bw Wood charcoal/1.5 w bw Other materials required 4 container (heat- OR acid-resstant OR plastic) 1 wooden stirsing rod istic, seoaden spoon, ete.) Procedure: 1. Poxider he ammonium nate, Use any convenient Method. Crushing i between hwo bricks works tly wel 2 ie || FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 2. Powder the charcoal. Use any convenient meth AN DYNAMITE Again, two bricks work well. you ate going to Use the same = (ool wo powder both chemical, clean well between Uses” | ay called: Semigelatn dynamite 3 Place the ammonium nitrate and the charcoal int |" = proloive type: high--sectndony the container and mix gently bu thoroughly For the stkegt |= = Bate apmron ssooe safety, do not mix more then 250g (8 02) ata time. The more |= = [ead block test: approx. 350cc finely powered the ammonium nitrate and charceal are the |= = Ghem, formula: mixture of AN, a nitvc ester, and sawdust. more effective the explosive will be Form: offsite damp powder 4 Store the moxtue in a waterproof container, = Deflagration emp.:e.n. sensitivity: high—e.n. s jon sensitivity low—e.n.. “Water sensitivity: tow tei an effective way to stretch available mate- als if you have ammonium nitrate and need a cap-sensitive losive. This material should be stored in an airtight con- if possible. The addition of 0.1 uibaw. of nivocellulose water resistance, ‘Ammonium nitrate/8 w.b.w, NitroglycoV1.5 u.b.w. OR Nitroglycerin/1-5 v.baw. OR Methyl mitate/1 5 bw. Fine sawdusti0.5 u.baw. OR Flour (wheaty05 u,b, ‘Other materials required 1 shallow pan lany Type) = Stirring rad (wooden), 1 piece of window screen 25 a FOR ACADIMIC STUDY ONLY Procedure: 1. Sift the sawdust through a piece of screen to remove any large wood fragment. 2. Place the ammoniuira nitrate and sawdust into the pan, Str until the two materials are well mixed. 3. SLOWLY and GENTLY pour the nitroglycol over the ammonium aitrate/sawdust mixture. Allow this mixture to stand for 30 minutes. This final mixture should be slightly damp but rot wet. If the nitroglycol does not appear to have ‘been COMPLETELY absorbed, then GENTLY add more ofthe ammonium nitraie/sawdust blend to the mix. ILis safer to hhave this mictuce too dry than too wet 26 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ANFO Explosive type’ high—secondary Det. rate: 3300 mis Lead block tes: 31 6¢c ‘Cher. formula: mixture of NH4NO3 and iuel ol Form:damp off-white power or rill, Deflagration temp.:e.7.0 Impact sensitivity: lower. Friction sensitivity: owen, Water sensitivity: high Initiate with: 288 (102! booster charge (only H powdered) ‘Ablasting cap may be used but periormance is reduced ANFO explosives are very dificult to detonate unless the AN is finely owdered. if you use powdered AN, be careful to avoid tightly packing the explosive, as this will also make difficult to detonate the material. li slightly less diesel fuel than the recommended amount is used, the material will be slghtiy more sensitive but also a bit less powerful. FAN pris ate used, a booster charge of AT LEAST 500g (1 Ib.) must be Used. The power of this explosive may be increased by adding 15% by weight of finely powdered aluminum. Finally, ANEO charges must be atleast? inches in diameter or will not detonate properly. MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required ‘Ammoniuen nitrate iprills oF powderedy9 u bow. Diesel fucli.5 u.b.w. OR Gasoline! 25 ubay. AND Motoroil)25ubw. ‘Otver materials required Container heat-OR acibvesstant OR plastic yr FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Stirring tod (wood or plastic) Procedure: 1. Place the ammonium nitate into the cont 2. Sprinkle the diese! fuel onto the amrvonium nite, ‘stir” these materials, as that will cause them to pack, Do no together. 3. Letstand for 1 how. 4.Store in a waterproof container NOTE: Hf powdered ammonium nitrate is being used and it becomos packed, it may he fhulled by rubbing 3 handel back and forth across a piece of screen or a cheese grater, FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ASTROLITE A Explosive ype: high-—secondary Det. rate: 7800 mis Lead block tex: e.0., Chem, formula: mixture Form: silvery liquid Deilagration temp. en. Impact seni tow en Friction sensitivity: owe. nu. Water senstvitys none Initiate with: 28g (102) booster charge, blasting cap Asuolite A isan extremely powerful explosive. Although it can be detonated with 2 blasting cap, a 28g (192) booster charge greatly improves pertormance MANUFACTURE ‘Chemicals required ‘Ammonium mitrate/2 ub w. Hydrazine canhydroust' u.bow. Aluminum iposéered or flaked 0.6 u bow. Other materials required 1 acie-resistant container Type b 1 sting fod glass or ceramic Procedure: 1. Pour the ammenium nitrate into the acid-resista Container 2. slowly pour a small amount af hydrazine into the ammonium nitvate. This wil cause the misture to bubble quite a bit so wait unithe bubbling stops heore adding more hyctazine. Continue this process until all the hydrazine has been adie 0 the. -mintee, NOTE:the fumes from this process ae toxic 29 __ FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 2. Gently sir the mixture for five minutes. 4, Gently stir the aluminum powder into the mixture, 5. The explosive is now ready for use. Store in an acid-resistant container. 30 er FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ASTROLITE G Explosive type: high—secondary Det. rate: 8600 m/s Lead block teste... Chem, formula:—mixture Form: clear liquid Deflagration temp. ens Impact sensitivity: ow —e.n.u, Friction sensitivity: low—e.n.u ity:none 288 (102) booster charge, blasting cap Astrolte G is an extremely powerful explosive. Although itean be detonated with a blasting cap, 2 28g (oz) booster charge greatly improves performance, MANUFACTURE Chemicals required: ‘Ammonium nitrate? uw. Hiydrazine fanbydrousy’l bw. (Other materials required Acid-resistant container (Type 1 Glass string rod Procedure: 1. Pour the ammonium nitrate into the acid-resistant container, 2. Slowly pour a small amount of hydrazine into the ammonium nitrate. This will cause the mixture to bubble {uite abit, so wait until the bubbling stops before adding tore hydrazine. Continue this until all the hydrazine has en added to the mixture. NOTE: The fumes from this pro ©e88 are toxic, at FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 3. Gently stir the mixture for five minutes, BLACK POWDER 4. The material is now ready for use. Store in an acid resistant container. Explosive type: iow fur rate: 500 m/s max. ‘Chem. formula: mixture of KNOB, S, and charcoal For: dry gray orblack powder ‘Deflagration temp: 300°C (572°F) impact sensitivity: e.n.u, ‘tition sensitivity: esnu, ‘Water sensitivity:high Initiate with: squib, fuse, or basting cap Black powder is a rather low-powered explosive, more suitable for use as a propellant or an incendiary than as an ‘explosive charge. But, if tightly contained, itwill work rea- sonably well. Also, the finer you granulate the powder the more explosive itwill be, so use the finest screen available to sranulate the powder. PREFERRED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE: Chemicals require: Potassium nitate”7 8 u baw. OR Sodium nitrate”? u.baw. Wood charcoal {powdered)y/1.5 u.b.w. Suliur (powdered u.bow Methyl aleohol/10 u.bw. OR Isopropyl alcohol(704% pure}/10 ub.w OR Ethyl alcohol (704% purey/10 u.b.w. Wate/5 ub.w. Other materials required 1 heat-resistant container 1 wooden string rod (stick, wooden spoon, ete) Screen (metal or stif plastic) with 25 inch or smaller ‘openings. Screen should be at feast 6x12 inch OR 32 33 Se FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Cheese grater (metal or plastic) Cloth shir, sheet, ete.) at least 18°x18" Heat source Procedure’ 1. Place the potassium nitrate, charcoal, sulfur and § ‘baw. of water into the heat-resistant container and stir wel 2. Place the heat-resistant container on the heat source and sti until smal! bubbles appear or until the mixture becomes hot to the touch. DO NOT bail mixture or allow it todryon the sides ofthe container, asitmay ignite, 3. Remove the mixture from heat and allow to cool’a room temperature. “4. Pour the alcohol into the mixture and stir wel 5 Strain the mieture through the cloth § Wrap cloth around mixture and gently squeeze out the remaining liquid, 7. Granulate the black powder by rubbing a small handiul across the sereen or the finer openings on a cheese sgrter 8, The black powder must now be dried. This can be done several dtferent ways, Three methods are listed below. ‘AV The powder can be dried using the sun. Spread the black powder out on a large fat surface and leave in direct sunlight for several hours. This will only work if the air ter peratire is over 25°C (77°F) 'b) The powder can be dried using a hot water bath Place about lem (0.4in) of powder inthe bottom of an acid resistant container (Type). Fill a pan with hot water and then place the container in the pan. Refi the pan with hot water ast cools, Ci The powder can be dried using an oven. Fiest pre- heat the oven to 100°C (212°F), Then turn the oven oif and wait 10 minutes, Place a small amount of black powder In the bottom ofa large pot or pan. Place the pot/pan into t ‘oven, Let the material sit in the oven until either itis com” pletely dry orthe oven cools below 30°C (12°F). the over 34 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ras cooled but the powder i not dry, take the black powder na ofthe over and ebeat the oven to 100°C (212°F). Again, ou ahe over off and wait 10 minutes before placing the ture power back in the oven. Repeat this process until the lecis dey. When using this method, itis a good idea to Jouile-check the oven temperature with a second ther- meter the oven is too hot, the material may explode. ffyou use some other method, be sure to dry the black in small batches of about 26g (102) s0 ifthe powder foes ignite accidentally, the damage will be minimized. 9. tmay be necessary to repeat step 7 if the black powder has clumped together. 10. The powder can be made into finer grains i nec~ essary) by spreading a TEASPOONFUL of the powder ata time onio alt surface and then gently crushing it. Be sure ‘0 keep the ret of the powder well away from the powder that isbeing crushed in case the powder that is being crushed should ignite. 11, Store in a waterproof container. ALTERNATE METHOD OF MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required Potassium nitrate/9 u,b, OR Sodium nitrate/10 w.b.w. Wood charcoal (powderedi/1.5 u.b.w. Sulfur (powdered)/1 u.b.w Waters ub. Other materials required: 1 heat-resistant container (metal, ceramic, et.) 2 Wooden stirring rod (stick, wooden spoon, etc) Screen {metal or tif plastic) with .25 inch or smallee ‘openings. Screen should be at least 6x12 inch OR Cheese grater (metal or plastic) 38 ie .« FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY seitntoslycerin but continue stirring) and allow the mix- se co0l 0 18°C (64°F before continuing 9, Continue stiring this rvstore and watching the temperature for 5 minutes afer the last of the glycerin has teen aided. 10, Remove from cooling and allow this mixture to sand unlit separates into two layers. The bottom layers eowplosive 1. Very gently pour off the top layer. Be very careful otto pour ou any ofthe bestom layer. is MUCH better to fotaute pour of al ofthe top layer than risk pouring off any thine xposive 12. Very GENTLY str 10 u.b.w, of water into the sivoglycerin ks notnecessary to monitor the temperature titre atte tis time, a8 it wil ot se 13. Gen sti this intr for 5 minutes. 14, Allow the mixture to stand unt it separates ito wolayers. The explosive is the bottom layer 15: Very GENTLY pour off the top layer 16, Repeat steps 12 through 15 atleast two more times, adding the soditm bicarbonate Gif available) during Sep 13.0 the second to lst change of water. 17, The nitroglycerin is now realy for use. f you are taking nitoglycein dynamite, then proceed to step 1; oth erwise store the nitroplycerin na sutabe container. 18. Place some othe absorbent nt the tay 19. Using the suction device, very SLOWLY and GENTLY add the nitroglycerin othe absorbent, Gently mix theexposive and the absorbent with a wooden stirring fd. absorbent shoul be slightly damp, but not so wet that the absorbent could drip. ifthe mixture becomes too wet, add more ofthe absorbent. tis 1 dry, add more explo. Sive, NOTE: it is much safer to make the explosive a little too. ‘ater then a ite to wet 72 3 1) |) FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY NITROGLYCOL, Expiosive type: high~secondary Det. rate: 7300 mis Lead block test:620ce Chem. formula:C2H4N206 Form: coloriesstiquit Deflagration temp.:215°C (419°F) Impact sensitivity: extremely high 0.2 Nv Friction sensitivity: ow—36+ kp Water sensitivity: none Initiate with: blasting cap Nitiogiycolis @ very powerful and sensitive exalosive that must be handled with extreme care. This explosive may be used as liquid, but i is more often used by wetting an absorbent ifine sawdust) with it and then using the absorbent as an explosive. This makes handling the material much Safer. Nitroghycol freezes at -20°C -4°F}, As with nitroglve erin, the freezing of the material is notin and of seit danger pus. However, while che nitrogivcol is thawing, itis even more sensitive than while in liquid form, Thawing nog yal SHOULD NOT BE HANDLED IN ANY WAY, Nitoslicol ean be mixed with nitroglycerin te lower the freezing point of the lamer MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required Glycol!t w.b.w—9 pd Sulfuric actd/S vb. v2.78 pbs Nitvic acid 90%y'3 vbw —2 p.bw. Sodium bicarbonate roptional)—0.05 ula water other materials requires: 2acid-esistant container Type w/ pouring spouts Large container {any ype) bg enough to hold 50 pb String rod lass) Glassthermometer Tray Absorbent fine saws) Suction device (eyecropper, syringe, bulb baster, etc.) Procedure: 1. Gently pour the sulfuric acid into the first aci resistant container. Slowly st the nitric acid into the sulfuric acid, 2. Allow the acid misture to stand for 10 minutes. 3. Using a refrigerator, a freezer, ora large pan filled with water and ice, coo! the acid mixture to 16°C (60°F), 4. Whil ising t@ cool the atid mixture, very slowly (one drop every 30 seconds| STIR the glycol into the acid mixture. Ifthe temperature of the acid/glycol mixture Slats to approach 26°C (78°F), then stop adding glycol but ‘continue stirring) and allow the mixture to cool to. 18°C (64°F) before continuing. WARNING: If you are using an ice water bath for cooling, be very careful to avoid getting ANY water into the acid/g|ycol mixture. This could cause the tempera- {ure to rise dangerously. Als, i at any time the mixture stats ‘emit dense red fumes, immediately dump it into the large Container filled with water, This will prevent an explosion. ing this step, he glycol is converted into nitroglycol. 5. Continue stirring mixture for 5 minutos after the lastof the glycol has been adided, 6. Pour 10 u_b.w. of water into the second acid-resis [nt containes and 40 u.b.w. of water into the large container, 7. Cool the water in the second acid-resistant con” lane to 16°C (60°F, 8. While continuing to cool the water, very SLOWLY 284 CENTLY sti che acie/iiroglycat mixture tram the first fainer into the water. The temperature of this new mixture ‘st be watched! very carefully. I the temperature of this new FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY mixture starts to approach 26°C (78°F), then stop adding the acid/nitroglycol (but continue stirring) and allow the mixture 10 cool to 18°C (64°F) betore continuing, 9. Contique stiering this mixture and watching the temperature for 5 minutes after the las of the glycol has been added. 10. Remove from cooling and allow this mixture tg stand until i separates into two layers. The bottom layer i the explosive. 11. Very GENTLY pour of the top layer. Be very care. ful not to pour out any ofthe bottom layer. tis MUCH better to not quite pour of all ofthe top layer than risk pouring cff any of the explosive. 12. Very GENTLY stir 10 ub. of cool water into the nitroglycol. iis not necessary to monitor the temperature of the mixture this time; it will not rise, 13. Gently stir this mixture for 5 minutes. 14. Allow the mixture fo stand unlit separates into wo layers. The explosive is the bottom layer. 15. Very GENTLY pour of the top layer. 16. Repeat steps 12 through 15 af least wo more times, adding the sodium bicarbonate if available) during step 13 on the second to last change of water 17, The nitroglyco! is now ready for use. if you are making nitroglycol dynamite, then proceed to step 18; other: ‘wise, sore the nitroglycol in a suitable containe: 18, Place some of the absorbent into the tray: 19, Using the suction device, very SLOWLY and GENTLY add the nitroglycol to the absorbent, Gently mix the explosive and the absorbent with a wooden stirring rod. The absorbent should be slightly damp, but not so wet thatthe absorbent could drip, ifthe mixture becomes ton wer, 268 ‘more of the absorbent. if its tao dry, add mare explosive NOTE:1tis much safer to make the explosive a litle 100 4” rather than a litle too wee, NITROSTARCH explosive type: high—secondary (Bet. ate: 5800 ms Lead block test: 350¢e ‘Chem. formula: C6H7N309 Form: light yellow powder Deflagration temp.: 182°C (360°F) Impact sensitivity: moderately low—11 Nem Friction senstivity:e.n.u. Water sensitivity: moderate Initiate with: lasing cap Nitrostarch is very similar to nitrocellulose, akhough itis sight less powerful anda litle more difficult to initiate tis reasonably efecve as a booster charge. Like nitrocellulose, itishighly spark sensitive and burns violently if ignited. MANUFACTURE: Chemicals required: Sulfuric acid ub. Nitric acie (90%V/1.5 u.baw. Starch25 u.baw. ‘Ammonium hydroxide (% solution¥0.1 u.b.w. ‘Water Other materials required 2 acid-rsistant containers (Type W) Stitring rod (glass or ceramic) Glass thermometer Large pan Filter paper Procedure: 1, Pour the suluéc acid into the acid-esistant container. FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 2. Slowly ste the nitric acid into the sulfuric acig, 3. Place the acid mixture into an ice water bay, ‘efrigerator, o reezer until te temperature ofthe mixed ar drops to 15°C (59°F), 4. Fil the large pan with ice and water. Place the coy. taines of mixed acid into the pan, If you used an ice wate, bath to cool the mixed acid, then the container of mixed acd] isalready in an ice water bath, 5. Very SLOWLY (a litle ata time) str the starch ing the acid mixture. The temperature ofthis mixture will stan ig, rise i the temperature tars to approach 30°C (86°F, contin. ue string, but top adding starch until the temperature ops to 20°C (68°F) 6. After the last ofthe starch has been added, remove the mixture flom the pan of water. Let the mixture stand for] hour stirring every 5 minutes, 7. Pour 6 u.b.w. of cold water into the second acid resistant container. 8. Slowly stir the mixed acla/tarch mixture into the ater. Stir this new mixture for § minutes. 9. Filter the solid material out ofthis new mixture using the filter paper. This solid materials nittostarch. 10. Thoroughly wash and dry the fst acic-resistant cntainer, 1 Place the nitrostarch into the acid-resistant com tainer 12. Pour 3 u.b.w. of warm water into the container With the nitrostarch. Stir this mixcuee for 5 minutes. 13, Filler the nitrostarch out ofthe water using the ter paper 44, Repeat steps 10 through 13 four more times. Ad# the 0.1 u.b.w of ammonium hydroxide (3% solution) 1th second to last change of water. 15. The nitrostarch must now be dried. This can 8 done several different ways. Three methods are listed below A) The material ean be dried using the sun. $9123 the nitrostarch out on large flat surface and leave in direst 78 en cna cece See ee ar Ifyou use some other method, be sure to dey the material insmall batches of about 14g (0.502) so if it should ignite Accidentally, the damage will be minimized 79 | FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY seat least a 10% solution. only 2 3% solution i available, NLX ‘ee 56g (202) booster charge, 2. Store in an acid-resistant container. Also called: Aerex, PUX Explosive type: high—secondary Det. rate: 6200 mis Lead block test: 400ce ‘Chem, formula: information unavailable Form: cleat liquid Deflagration temp.; e.n.u—bums easily Impact sensitivity: low—e.n.u. Friction sensitivity: Iow—e.n., ‘Water sensitivity: none Initiate with: 285 (102) booster NLX isa powerful liquid explosive, Although iis some times poccible to detonate this material using a standard blasting cap, performance is greatly reduced. A 28g (102) booster charge should always he used with this explosive. MANUFACTURE Chemicals required: Nitromethane/15 ubw—15 pb Axitine/I w.b.w—t pbvOR Trethylamina/t ubw—t .bs. OR Ammonia hydroxide (3% solution Tabse—t pbs Other materials wequire: 1 acid-esistant container (Type) 1 sting rod (glass, ceramic or wood) Procedure 1, Slowly sti the aniline into the nitromethane. (F¥O% ate using ammonia hydroxide solution asa sensitizer tv" 80 at a FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 1 2. Slowly stirthe nitromethane oF NLX into the sau a ust. NOTE: The ratio of nitromethane to sawdust is an ‘Also called: Nivomethane Sawdust Explosive Spproximation, Depending on the absorbency ofthe saw- tot. more or less may be used. Use enough sawdust so that the material does not drip, 3. Store in an acid-resistanvairtight container. Explosive type: high—secondary Det. rate: approx. 6000 ws Lead block test:approx. 350c¢ Chem. formula:mixture of nitromethane and fine sawdust Form: damp powder Deflagration temp.se.n.s Impact sensitivity: low—e.n.u, Friction sensitivity: low—e.n. Water sensitivity: moderate Initiate with: 56gr (202) booster NSXis afairly poweriul explosive. tis also quite simpleta manufacture. NSX is quite difficult to detonate and requires S6gr (2oz) booster charge to initiate it. f possible, this explo- sive should be manufactured with NLX instead of straight nitromethane. The use of NLX allows this material to be deta- nated with a 28g¢ (102) booster charge. If itis stored fn ana tight container, NSK can be stored for quite some time with: ‘out losing effocriveness MANUFACTURE Chemicals requited: Nitromethane/4 u-bw OR NUN u.b.w. ee NLX manufacture) Fine sawdust wba. Other materials required: 1 acicesisiantcontainer Stirring rod (glass, ceramic, oF wood Procedure! 1. Place the sawdust int the aeid-resstant containet i a3 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY ’ FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY PEIN Also called: Pentaeryhrito tetranitrate Explosive type: high—secondary Det. ate: 8400 m/s Lead block test: 520ce ‘Chem. formula: CSHSN4012 Form: colovess crystals, Deflagration temp: 200°C (392°F) Impact sensitivity: high—3 Nm Friction sensitivity: moderate—6 kp Water sensitivity: none Initiate with: blasting cap PETN is a poweriul explosive with a high detonation rate tis an excellent booster explosive and is the filling used in ost detonation cord MANUFACTURE Chemicals required: Nitric acid (98%Y/14 ub. Pentaerythrtol/3 ub.w. Acetone/18 ub. Water (Other materials required 1 large acidresistant container Type Hy 1 acid-resistant container (Type) Large pan Glass thermometer Stirring rod (glass or coramich Filter paper OR Square of cotton cloth as Procedure: 1. Pourthe nitric acid into the acid- resistant container ne cov the acid to below 15°C (59°). Any method of cool Jngmay be used for this step: ice water bath, refizeratox, er et fee il the large pan with amintre of ce an wate, 53. Place the container of ritrc acid into the pac of ce water. Be careul to avoid splashing any water intothe con tne of acid 4. Very slowly (1/4 teaspoon every 30 seconds) stir te pentaerythritol into the nie acid, The temperatre ofthe inture may start 0 rise. Do not allow the temperature to exceed 20°C (68°F. if the temperature starts o approach 20°C (68°P, then top adding pentaerythritol and continue 1 Bicgenly unt the temperature drops below 15°C 59°) 5. Let the mixture stand inthe ice bath tional 30 minutes, stirring the mixte every 5 minutes. 6. Fill the large acid-resistant container with 34 usw of cold water. Gently atthe acidpertaerthnitol ni tureinto the cold water. 7. Filter the PETN crystal out of the water using a Piece of ction cloth o filter pape. 8. Gently pour another 20 u.b., of water over the PEIN crystals to Wash away remaining acid 9. Empy out the pan oF ice water. 10. Thoroughly wash and dry the acid-resistant con tne, 11. Pour the acetone into the acid-resistant container. 12 Place the container of acetone into the empty pan. Heat some water to a low boil 14. Very slowly pour the water into the pan so that the hot water surrounds the container of acetone the acid ‘stant container is made of glass and you pour the ho Water fn too fast the container may break 15, Aliow the temperature of the acetone to rise 0 bout 50°C (122°F}. may benecessary to add mote boiling Water tothe pan inorder ta keep the water inthe pan hot di 85 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 16, Slowly str the PETN crystals into the acetone, 17 Empty and rinse the large acid-resistant containe, Fill the container with 26 u-b.w.of COLD water 18. Stir the acetone/PETN mixture into the containes of cold water. 19, Filter the PETN crystals out of the water using clean piece of cotton cloth or fter paper 20, The PETN must now be dried. This ean be done several different ways. Three methods are listed below. A) The material can be dried using the sun, Spread the PETN out on a large flat surface and leave in direct sun. light for several hours. This will only work if the air tempera: ture is over 25°C (77°F, 8B) The material can be dried using a hot water bath Placea small amount of material in the bottom of an acide resistant container Type. Filla pan, ‘water and then piace the container in the pan, ‘with hot water 3s it cools ) The PETN can be dried using an oven, First preheat the oven 10 100°C (212°F). Then turn the oven off and wait 10 minutes, Place a small amount of PETN in the bottom ofa large acid: resistant container. Place the container into the oven. Let the material st in the avan until either is com pletely dry or the oven cools below 50°C: (12°F. dre oven fhas cooled but the material is not dry, take the PETN outof the oven and reheat the oven to T00°C (212°F). Again, tu the oven off and wait 10 minutes before placing the material back in the oven. Repeat this process until the material i When using this method, itis a goad idea to double-check the oven temperature with a second thermometes-—ii the ‘oven is too hot, the material mav explode. Hf you use some other method, be sure to dry the material in simall batches of about 14g (0.507) 5s if it should igot® accidentally, the damage will be minimized, PICRIC ACID Explosive type: high—secondary Det. rate: 7250 mis lead block test:315ce (Chem. formula: COH3N3O7 Form: yellow crystals | Deflagration vemp.: 300°C 572°F1 Inipact sensitivity: moderate 7,4 Nm | Friction sensitivity: low— 364 kp Water sensitivity: moderate Initiate with: lasting cap Picric acid isa toxic material and must be handled very carefully. Also, picric acid will react with many metals to form impact-sensitive metal salts soit MUST be kept out of contact with metal PREFERRED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE. | Chemical eid | Sullurc acid ubw 6.6 pb Nineacid OHA ubwe—Pp bv [teehee Water | Other materials equi 1 heal/ci estan contains Type Tackett container (pe | tagepan Heat source Glas hermometer Procedure ubyy_1 Soy stirs wo 2.2 pb ofsultutic acid and 1 0.9 pv. of phenol into the healacidresstant containe ay FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 2. Fil the pan shout hallway fl of water npc on the Heat source This wl futon like a double Doles take contoling temperatures eas 3. Put the hea/acid resistant contains withthe no/acd mixture into the pan and slowly heatto bout Ieee 12°F), Keep at tis temperature until theres 30 longerss crlorof phenol. This wil take from 15 030 minutes, WAR ING: Do not lean overthe container and inhale deeply Check or the smell of phenol. The smell sary stones | you wll beable to check justby stancng near the cong | Bre taking a LITTLE si “Remove he container ftom the pan ad low the sinture to cool tbelow 30°C (86°) 5. Gently stir 5 u.b.w.—2.75 p.b.v. of sulfuric acid | Inno the phenol mistare Pour tuibwyof wate into the aci-rsitenton- | taines then slowly stir ubw—1.6 pb.v of sulle sla | and 3 u.bw of nitric acid into the water. 7. Fill he large pan with ice water, Set the container of water/nitric acid/sulfurie acid mixture into the pan ofice ‘water and allow itto stand for 30 minutes. 8. Remove the wates/ nitric aci/ulfuric acid mixture from the pan of ice water Refill the pan with ice water ‘9, Set the container of phenolsulturic acid into the pan of ice water. 10, Very slowly (one drap every 10 seconds) stirthe waterfnitrie acid/sulfuric acid mixture to the phenolisulfarc acid mixture. Ifthe temperature of the phenol/acid mixture starts to approach 40°C (104°F}, then stop adding the acié ‘mixture (but continue stirring} and allow the phenolfecié ‘mixture to €90! to below 30°C (86°F) before continuing. 11. Afterall he water/nitric acid/sulfuricacic misr® | has eon aded to the phenoVacid mixture, continue se | for 10 minutes. 12, Remove the heavacid-resistant container isomth pan and empty out the ice water. Reilll the pan with plait water and place it on the heat source. Place several sl 88 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY soles inthe panto preven the heaacid-esistant contain. ete esting ely onthe toto ofthe pan 15. Pace the heaacidesitont container back inthe ganar vet slowly Heathe misur to BO" (176) and Signe inture at this tempertare or at least 1 Tul hour lernallow the temperature ofthe mixture to exceed SOC pein durng tis step, As soon asthe temperature reaches {16° turnoff the heat and allow the mixture to coo SC (38 before tuning he heat back on, Ti Remove heatack-essane container om the test andallow the misture to cool o rom temperature 15. Pour 4 uw. of cold water into an acld-esiant container St the mixture fom step 1 no the water, 6. iter the perc aero crystals oot the str by anicngthe mitre through iter paper or heavy coton cot 17, While the crystals are aillon the strainer, geily pour 6 uw. of cold water over them to wash away the fenaiing 28 The picrc acid must now be dried, This can be dene several diferent ways. Thee methods arelited below. 'A The material can be dried using the sun. Spread the pier acid out on a large fla surface and Veavein dct sunlight for several houts. This will only work if the ai te Peraieis over 25°C VF 1) The material canbe dried using a hot waterbath, Place a smal amount of material the bolt ofan cid tis comtainer Type Fila pan wth hot OOre/194"7 Water and ten place the conainerinthe Dan, Reflthe pan with ot water ast cools. O The picic acid canbe dried using an oven. Fist Breheat he oven to 100°C (212°, Then turn the oven off 2nd wait 9 nutes, Place asvall amount of pric 2id in ‘bottom of a large acid-resistant container, Place the con- Biner nto tne oven. Let the enaterial sit in the ove unt fither iis completely dy or the oven cools bolow 30°C 2274) the oven has cooled bat te material 049, tke the pic acd out of the oven and reheat the oven fo a9 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 100°C (122°). Again, tuen the oven off and wait 10 miny before placing the material backin the oven. Repeat this po ess until the material is dry. When using this method, itg, 00d idea to double-check the oven temperature with ase ‘ond thermometer—if the oven is too hot, the material may explode, If you use some other method, be sure to dry the mate in small batches of about 14g (0.502) so if itshould ignie accidentally, the damage will be minimized. 19. The picric acid is now ready for use. Store ina lass, ceramic, cr plastic container. ALTERNATE METHOD OF MANUFACTURE, Chemicals required: Methyl alcohol/12 u.bow. Sulfurie acid/22 w.b.w Potassium nitrate/2.25 ub.w, baw. ‘Water (Other materials required: 2 acid-cesistant containers (fypel) 1 heat/acie-resistant container (Type tl) Large pan Filter paper OR ‘Cotton cloth ‘tiring rod iglass, ceramic or wood) Heat source Procedure: 1. Crush the aspirin into fine powder and place tH powder into the first acid-resistant containet 2, Strin just enough water to tuen the asprin pow Intoa thick paste 90 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 3. Stir the methyl alcohol into the aspirin paste and rixwell 4. Filter the aspirin/alcoho! mixture through the fiter paper Keep the liquid and discard the solids let on the fter PS 5 evaporate he alcohol out ofthe incur by placing thecontainer in a pan filled with hot 80°C (176°F) water. This wl leave a white power in the container. 6. Gently pour the sulfuric acid into the heat/acid- resistant container, 7. Stirthe white powder from step 5 into the sulfuric 8. lace the pan onthe eat source an filth ater 9. Place the container withthe mxtue of sulterc sci powder io te an of water. eat tne water 3 iow simer Leave ha mise onthe oat source fr TS tes. The sulfuric acidwhte poder mitre wil change 9 Sakylow color. TO. Remove th eatc-esistant container fom he panotot water T1 Slowly sti the potassium nate nto the sul scioite power mise. The motue il gan change {Sif to are, hen back oa dark yellow WARNING ‘The fumes given off during this step are poisonous. Ensure. adzquateventoton 12. Allow the mat ocool room temperature Sirs mint every wo minutes ie coating 1B. Thoroughly wash addy the st cid-resstant conainr 4 Pour 46 ub. of cold water nto the fst ac ‘etn container Sow sit the wularc acide pow ‘etfpotassium nitrate mixtute into the water 15. Allo hemixtre and for 15 minutes, 16- Fier he mturethough flier paper The yellow sas that collect onthe ier paper te perc se 17-Pour ua. of cold water over the crystals to wash anay inoontes, —— : \ ” | | \ FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 18. Dry using one of the methods listed sep 19g the PREFERRED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE RDX A Also called: Cyclonite, Cyclorrimethylenetrinitamine Explosive ype: high--seconclary Det ate: 8500 mvs Lead block es: 480¢¢ (Chem. formula: C3HEN6OS Form: colorless crystals Deflagration temp.: 250°C (482°) Impact sensitivity: movlerate- 7.5 Nm Friction sensitivity: low—12 kp Water sensitivity: none Initate with basting cap. RDX isthe explosive component in the U.S. military's C- 4.The main ditference between KDX (A) and KUX{B) 5 the presence of HMX in RDX (8). The presence of HMX makes lite, if any, practical difference in the material. Both are Powertul explosives with excellent handling qualities. RDX is also a good material for use as a booster charge. Although ROX will detonate underwater, like most explosives itis more dificult to detonate when wet, So, a booster charge should beused when using RDX 2s an undenvater charge. MANUFACTURE: (Chemicals require Nitric acid 90%) ub. Heramethvfenetrramiae) wh w Sodium carhonates0.05 «baw, ‘Other materials requite 1 heatfaci-resstant container i Tye M0) Glass chermometer 1 acid-esistant container (Type tb {Lame pan for fee hath and hot waterbath 93 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY Heat source rocedure: 1 Pour the nitric acid into the heat/acid- resistant con, trainer, 2. Place the heat/acid-tesistant container into an ice water bath and allow the nitric acid to cool t0 20°C (65°, 43. While continuing to cool the acid, very slowly (a teaspoon every 60 seconds stir the hexamethlylenetetring into the nitric acid. The temperature of the mixture will stan 10 ise. Do not allow the temperature to exceed 30°C (86), If the temperature of the mixture starts to approach 30% (G6°h), then stop adding hexamethlylenetetramine and stir igently until the temperature drops to 20°C (68°F). “4. After the last of the hexamethlylenetetramine has been added, co sal and ste the foe S min utes. Then remove the inixture from the ice water bath and allow the mixture to stand until it reaches room temperature. 5, Empty the ice water out of the pan. Refill the pan with water and place the pan on the heat source. 6, Heat the water inthe pan to 60°C (T40°F). Remove the pan from the heat source, 7. Place the heav/acid-resistant container with the acid/bexamethlylenetetramine mixture into the pan of warm Water and stir for 15 minutes, Remove the acid/hexamet Iylenetetramine mixture from the pan of water and let the fe stand for 15 minutes. 8. Pour 11 u.baw, of COLD water into the acid-res- rant container ‘9. Slowly and gently stir in the acid/hexameth Iylenetetramine mixture into the container of water. White crystals will sete aut ofthe mixture. These crystals ate ROX. 10, Filter the RDX crystals out of the mixture usin’ either carton cloth or paper towels. 1T. Thoroughly rinse and dry the acié-resistant cntaines 12, Gently place the RDX crystals and 11 .b.¥ waterinto the acid-resistant container 94 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY 13. Add the sodium carbonate to the mixture in the acid-esistant container and sti gently for 5 minutes. 14, Filter the RDX erystals oUt of the mixture using either cotton cloth or paper towels 15. If you are going to use the explosive within 3 days, proceed directly to step 24. if you need to store the ROX for longes then 3 days or if you are using itas an ingredi entin another explosive, it must be purified Toopurity: 16. Thoroughly rinse and dry the heat/acie-resistant containes 17. Refill the pan with water. Heat the water to a low boil. Remove the pan irom the heat source. 18.7 tant container. iner of acetone into the pan of hot water. Let the acetone warm to 50°C (12°F), stirring occasionally. fit becomes necessary to rewarm the water, remove the container of acetone before placing the pan back on the heat source, inne 12 GPM lace the ROX in 20, Very slowly stir warm acetone into the acid-resis- ‘antcontainer just until ali the ROX crystals dissolve. 21. Letthe mixture stand for 30 minutes, 22, Pour an equal volume af COLD water into the aceione/RDX mixture. NOTE: If acetone isin short supply. Youmay omit this step and precipitate the RDX out of the: cetone by cooling the acetone to O°C. (32°F), If cooling Method of precipitation is used, the acetone may be reused "P105 times before it must be discarded, 23. Filter the RDX crystals out af the mixture usio ther cotton cloth or paper towels : 24. Tho RDX must now be dried. This can be done fal diferent ways. Three methods ae fisted below. A] The material can be deied using the sun, Spre: an acideresistant con- 95 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY RDXB 3 called: Cyclonite, Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine plosive type: high—secondary rate: 8500 m/s lock test: 480cc formula: CH6N6O0 colorless cryetale gration temp. 250°C (482°F) FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY the RDX out on a large flat surface and leave in direc Tight for several hours, This wll only work ifthe ai temper: ture is over 25°C (77°P) B) The material can be dried using a hot water Place a small amount of material in the bottom of an aed fesistant container (ype I Filla pan with hot water and place the container in the pan. Reil the pan with hot wate a itcools. (©) The RDX can be dried using an oven Fist prehea— the oven to 100°C (212°), Then turn the oven off and vai 10 minutes. Place a small amount of RDX in the botom ef lange acid-resistant container. Place the container into tg coven, Let the material sit inthe oven until either itis com pletely dry or the oven cools below 50°C (122°) f the oven fas cooled but the material isnot dy, ake the RDX out of he ven and reheat the oven to 100°C (21°F. Again, tm he oven off and wait 10 minutes before placing the materia back in the oven. Repeat this process until the material isd. When using this method, it sa good idea to double-check the oven temperature with a second thermometer—ifthe oven fs 100 hot, the material may explode ater sensitivity: none ite with: blasting cap ‘of HMX in RDX (8). The presence of HMX makes if any, practical difference in the material. Both are explosives with excellent handling qualities. ROX is {00d material for use as a booster charge. Although il detonate underwater, ike most explosives it ismore Eultto detonate when wet. So, a booster charge should d when using RDX as an underwater charge. you use some other method, be sure to dy the materi in small batches of about 14g (0.502) s0 iit should detorat accidentally, the damage will be minimized, emicals required = Acetic anhydride/6.3 u.b.w. ‘Ammonium nitrate/2.6 baw. Paraformaldehyderl «baw, OR Formaldehyde (37% solutiony2.5 u.b-w, Acetone 25 u,b. © Water her materials required: Hea/acid-resistant container Type I) 96 FOR ACADEMIC STUDY ONLY | 9, Pour 25 u.b.w. of acetone into the heal/acid-resis- pntaines. Carefully place the container of acetone into n of hot water. Let the acetone warm to 50*C (122°F), joccasionally. If t becomes necessary to rewarm the iremove the container of acetone before placing the clon the heat source. 10. Gently place the RDX into an acid-resistant con- Glass thermometer Large pan Heat source 2 Fitermateialcotonclth, pape owes oF jie papa Procedure: 1. Pour the acetic anhydride into the acid-resistane container. 1, Str the ammoniuen nitrate ito te acetic a ride in the acid-resstant container. Continue sting the acetic anhydride and ammonium nitrate are well mde 5. Place the pan onthe heat source : 4. Fillthe pan vith water and place the heavack resistant container into the pan, 5, SLOWLY heat the acetic anhydide/ammoni rate mixture to 90°C (194°F), then tum of theteat. 6. Leave the container of acetic anfydride/ammo tum nitrate in the pan ot hot water. Very SLOWLY (174 Sp00n ata time STIR the paraformaldehyde o: formalde into the acetic anhydride/ammonium nitrate mixt WARNING: The fumes produced during this step are flammable and toxic 7. Allow the mixture to oo! ta coom temperature 8: Str this nature into 100 bss. of COLD wats, 4. Filter this new mixture through whatever fil rmaterial you are using. The ceystals that are tered outa ROX. I the explosive going tobe used a is within 3 day ismot necessary to purify tH the ROX must be sored or length of time or itis going to be used in the manufactur another explosive, then praceed t step 7 < 11, Vey slowly stir warm acetone into the acd-resi- taner just until all the RDX crystals dissolve. “12. Let the mixture stand for 30 minutes. “13. Pour an equal volume of COLD water into the DX minture, NOTE: If acetone isin short supply, ay omit this step and precipitate the RDX outof the ne by cooling the acetone to 0°C (32°F). If cooling fof precipitation is used, the acetone may be reused $5 times beforo it must be discarded. 14. Filter the RDX crystal out ofthe mixture using coon cloth, paper towels, o filter paper 15, The ROX must now be dried. This can be done ferent ays. Three methods are listed below. “AY The material can be dried using the sun. Spread ‘ut on a large flat surface and leave in direct sun- several hous. This will only work the air tempera- 25°C (77°F) The material can be dried using a hot water bath. small amount of material in the bottom of an acid- container Type Fill a pan with hot water and then ‘container inthe pan. Refill the pan with hot water ©) The RDX can be dried using an oven. First preheat t0 100°C (212°F), Then turn the oven off and wait utes, Place a small amount of RDX in the bottom of a #acid-resistant container. Place the container into the the material sit in the oven until either itis com- itty or the oven cools below 50°C. (122°F). If the oven.

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