Improvised Munitions Handbook (Improvised Explosive Devices or IEDs)

# Section 1
Explosives and Propellants (including igniters)

## 1.1 Plastic Explosive Filler

A plastic explosive filler can be made from potassium chlorate and petroleum jelly. This explosive can be detonated with commercial #8 or any military blasting cap.

Materials Required | How Used
--- | ---
Potassium chlorate | Medicine Manufacture of matches
Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) | Medicine Lubricant
Piece of round stick |
Wide bowl or other container for mixing ingredients |

#### Procedure

1. Spread potassium chlorate crystals thinly on a hard surface. Roll the round stick over crystals to crush into a very fine powder until it looks like face powder or wheat flour.
2. Place 9 parts powdered potassium chlorate and 1 part petroleum jelly in a wide bowl or similar container. Mix ingredients with hands (knead) until a uniform paste is obtained.

Note: Store explosive in a waterproof container until ready to use.

## 1.2 Potassium Nitrate

Potassium nitrate (saltpeter) can be extracted from many natural sources and can be used to make nitric acid, black powder and many pyrotechnics. The yield ranges from 0.1 to 10% by weight, depending on the fertility of the soil.

Materials | Source
--- | ---
Nitrate bearing earth or other material, about 3-1/2 gallons (13-1/2 liters) | Soil containing old decayed vegetable or animal matter Old cellars and/or farm dirt floors Earth from old burial grounds Decayed stone or mortar building foundations
Fine wood ashes, about 1/2 cup (1/8 liter) | Totally burned whitish wood ash powder Totally burned paper (black)
Bucket or similar container, about 5 gallons (19 liters) in volume (plastic, metal, or wood) |
2 pieces of finely woven cloth, each slightly larger than bottom of bucket |
Shallow pan or dish, at least as large as bottom of bucket |
Shallow heat resistant container (ceramic, metal, etc.) |
Water – 1-3/4 gallons (6-3/4 liters) |
Awl, knife, screwdriver, or other hole producing instrument |
Alcohol about 1 gallon (4 liters) (whiskey, rubbing alcohol, etc.) |
Heat source (fire, electric heater, etc.) |
Paper |
Tape |

Note: Only the ratios of the amounts of ingredients are important. Thus, for twice as much potassium nitrate, double quantities used.

#### Procedure

1. Punch holes in bottom of bucket. Spread one piece of cloth over holes inside of bucket.
2. Place wood ashes on cloth and spread to make a layer about the thickness of the cloth. Place second piece of cloth on top of ashes.
3. Place dirt in bucket.
4. Place bucket over shallow container. Bucket may be a ported on sticks if necessary.
5. Boil water and pour it over earth in bucket a little at a time. Allow water to run through holes in bucket into shallow container. Be sure water goes through all of the earth. Allow drained liquid to cool and settle for 1 to 2 hours.

   Note: Do not pour all of the water at once, since this may cause stoppage.

6. Carefully drain off liquid into heat resistant container. Discard any sludge remaining in bottom of the shallow container.
7. Boil mixture over hot fire for at least 2 hours. Small grains of salt will begin to appear in the solution. Scoop these out as they form, using any type of improvised strainer (paper, etc.).
8. When liquid has boiled down to approximately half its original volume, remove from fire and let sit. After half an hour add an equal volume of alcohol. When mixture is poured through paper, small white crystals will collect on top of it.
9. To purify the potassium nitrate, redissolve the dry crystals in the smallest possible amount of boiled water. Remove any salt crystals that appear (step 7); pour through an improvised filter made of several pieces of paper and evaporate or gently heat the concentrated solution to dryness.
10. Spread crystals on flat surface and allow to dry. The potassium nitrate crystals are now ready for use.

## 1.3 Improvised Black Powder

Black powder can be prepared in a simple, safe manner. It may be used as blasting or gun powder.

Materials Required
Potassium nitrate, granulated, 3 cups (3/4 liter) (section 1.2)
Wood charcoal, powdered, 2 cups (1/2 liter)
Sulfur, powdered, 1/2 cup (1/8 liter)
Alcohol, 5 pints (2-1/2 liters) (whiskey, rubbing alcohol, etc.)
Water, 3 cups (3/4 liter)
Heat source
2 Buckets – each 2 gallon (7-1/2 liters) capacity, at least one of which is heat resistant (metal, ceramic, etc.)
Flat window screening, at least 1 foot (30 cm) square
Large wooden stick
Cloth, at least 2 feet (60 cm) square

Note: The above amounts will yield two pounds (900 grams) of black powder. However, only the ratios of the amounts of ingredients are important. Thus, for twice as much black powder, double all quantities used.

#### Procedure

1. Place alcohol in one of the buckets.
2. Place potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur in the heat resistant bucket. Add 1 cup water and mix thoroughly with wooden stick until all ingredients are dissolved.
3. Add remaining water (2 cups) to mixture. Place bucket on heat source and stir until small bubbles begin to form.

   Caution: Do not boil mixture. Be sure all mixture stays wet. If any is dry, as on sides of pan, it may ignite.

4. Remove bucket from heat and pour mixture into alcohol while stirring vigorously.
5. Let alcohol mixture stand about 5 minutes. Strain mixture through cloth to obtain black powder. Discard liquid. Wrap cloth around black powder and squeeze to remove all excess liquid.
6. Place screening over dry bucket. Place workable amount of damp powder on screen and granulate by rubbing solid through screen.

   Note: If granulated particles appear to stick together and change shape, recombine entire batch of powder and repeat steps 5 and 6.

7. Spread granulated black powder on flat dry surface so that layer about 1/2 inch (1-1/4 cm) is formed. Allow to dry. Use radiator, or direct sunlight. This should be dried as soon as possible, preferably in one hour. The longer the drying period, the less effective the black powder.

Caution: Remove from heat as soon as granules are dry. Black powder is now ready for use.

## 1.4 Nitric Acid

Nitric acid is used in the preparation of many explosives, incendiary mixtures, and acid delay timers. It may be prepared by distilling a mixture of potassium nitrate and concentrated sulfuric acid.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Potassium nitrate (2 parts by volume) | Drug Store Improvised (section 1.2)
Concentrated sulfuric acid (1 part by volume) | Motor vehicle batteries Industrial plants
2 bottles or ceramic jugs (narrow necks are preferable) |
Pot or frying pan |
Heat source (wood, coal, or charcoal) |
Tape (paper, electrical, masking, etc. but not cellophane) |
Paper or rags |

Important: If sulfuric acid is obtained from a motor vehicle battery, concentrate it by boiling it until white fumes appear. Do not inhale fumes.

Note: The amount of nitric acid produced is the same as the amount of potassium nitrate. Thus, for 2 tablespoonfuls of nitric acid, use 2 tablespoonfuls of potassium nitrate and 1 tablespoonful of concentrated sulfuric acid.

#### Procedure

1. Place dry potassium nitrate in bottle or jug. Add sulfuric acid. Do not fill bottle more than 1/4 full. Mix until paste is formed.

   Caution: Sulfuric acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Fumes are also dangerous and should not be inhaled.

2. Wrap paper or rags around necks of 2 bottles. Securely tape necks of bottles together. Be sure bottles are flush against each other and that there are no air spaces.
3. Support bottles on rocks or cans so that empty bottle is slightly lower than bottle containing paste so that nitric acid that is formed in receiving bottle will not run into other bottle.
4. Build fire in pot or frying pan.
5. Gently heat bottle containing mixture by moving fire in and out. As red fumes begin to appear periodically pour cool water over empty receiving bottle. Nitric acid will begin to form in the receiving bottle.

   Caution: Do not overheat or wet bottle containing mixture or it may shatter. As an added precaution, place bottle to be heated in heat resistant container filled with sand or gravel. Heat this outer container to produce nitric acid.

6. Continue the above process until no more red fumes are formed. If the nitric acid formed in the receiving bottle is not clear (cloudy) pour it into cleaned bottle and repeat steps 2–6.

Caution: Nitric acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Fumes are also dangerous and should not be inhaled. Nitric acid should be kept away from all combustibles and should be kept in a sealed ceramic or glass container.

## 1.5 Initiator for Dust Explosions

An initiator which will initiate common material to produce dust explosions can be rapidly and easily constructed. This type of charge is ideal for the destruction of enclosed areas such as rooms or buildings.

Materials Required
A flat can, 3 inches (8 cm) diameter and 1-1/2 inch (3-3/4 cm) high. A 6-1/2 ounce (185 g) tuna can serves the purpose quite well.
Blasting cap
Explosive
Aluminum (may be wire, cut sheet, flattened can or powder
Large nail, 4 inches (10 cm) long
Wooden rod – 1/4 inch (6 mm) diameter
Flour, gasoline and powder or chipped aluminum

Note: Plastic explosives (Composition C4, etc.) produce better explosions than cast explosives (Composition B, etc.).

#### Procedure

1. Using the nail, press a hole through the side of the tuna can 3/8 to 1/2 inch (1 to 1-1/2 cm) from the bottom. Using a rotating and lever action, enlarge the hole until it will accommodate the blasting cap.
2. Place the wooden rod in the hole and position the end of the rod at the center of the can.
3. Press explosive into the can, being sure to surround the rod, until it is 3/4 inch (2 cm) from top of the can. Carefully remove the wooden rod.
4. Place the aluminum metal on top of the explosive.
5. Just before use, insert the blasting cap into the cavity made by the rod. The initiator is now ready for use.

Note: If it is desired to carry the initiator some distance, cardboard may be pressed on top of the aluminum to insure against loss of material.

#### How to Use

This particular unit works quite well to initiate charges of five pounds of flour, 1/2 gallon (1-2/3 liters) of gasoline or two pounds of flake painters aluminum. The solid materials may merely be contained in sacks or cardboard cartons. The gasoline may be placed in plastic coated paper milk cartons, plastic or glass bottles. The charges are placed directly on top of the initiator and the blasting cap is actuated electrically or by fuse depending on the type of cap employed. This will destroy a 2,000 cubic feet enclosure (building 10 x 20 x 10 feet).

Note: For larger enclosures, use proportionately larger initiators and charges.

## 1.6 Fertilizer Explosive

An explosive munition can be made from fertilizer grade ammonium nitrate and either fuel oil or a mixture of equal parts of motor oil and gasoline. When properly prepared, this explosive munition can be detonated with a blasting cap.

Materials Required
Ammonium nitrate (not less than 32% nitrogen)
Fuel oil or gasoline and motor oil 1:1 ratio)
Two flat boards. (At least one of these should be comfortably held in the hand, i.e. 2 x 4 and 36 x 36.)
Bucket or other container for mixing ingredients
Iron or steel pipe or bottle, tin can or heavy-walled cardboard tube
Blasting cap
Wooden rod – 1/4 inch diameter
Spoon or similar measuring container

#### Procedure

1. Spread a handful of the ammonium nitrate on the large flat board and rub vigorously with the other board until the large particles are crushed into a very fine powder that looks like flour (approximately 10 minutes).

   Note: Proceed with step 2 as soon as possible since the powder may take moisture from the air and become spoiled.

2. Mix one measure (cup, tablespoon, etc.) of fuel oil with 16 measures of the finely ground ammonium nitrate in a dry bucket or other suitable container and stir with the wooden rod. If fuel oil is not available, use one half measure of gasoline and one half measure of motor oil. Store in a waterproof container until ready to use.
3. Spoon this mixture into an iron or steel pipe which has an end cap threaded on one end. If a pipe is not available, you may use a dry tin can, a glass jar or a heavy-walled cardboard tube.

   Note: Take care not to tamp or shake the mixture in the pipe. If mixture becomes tightly packed, one cap will not be sufficient to initiate the explosive.

4. Insert blasting cap just beneath the surface of the explosive mix.

Note: Confining the open end of the container will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.

## 1.7 Carbon Tet – Explosive

A moist explosive mixture can be made from fine aluminum powder combined with carbon tetrachloride or tetrachloroethylene. This explosive can be detonated with a blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Fine aluminum bronzing powder | Paint Store
Carbon tetrachloride, or tetrachloroethylene | Pharmacy, or fire extinguisher fluid Dry cleaners, Pharmacy
Stirring rod (wood) |
Mixing container (bowl, bucket, etc.) |
Measuring container (cup, tablespoon, etc.) |
Storage container (jar, can, etc.) |
Blasting cap |
Pipe, can or jar |

#### Procedure

1. Measure out two parts aluminum powder to one part carbon tetrachloride or tetrachloroethylene liquid into mixing container, adding liquid to powder while stirring with the wooden rod.
2. Stir until the mixture becomes the consistency of honey syrup.

   Caution: Fumes from the liquid are dangerous and should not be inhaled.

3. Store explosive in a jar or similar water proof container until ready to use. The liquid in the mixture evaporates quickly when not confined.

Note: Mixture will detonate in this manner for a period of 72 hours.

#### How to Use

1. Pour this mixture into an iron or steel pipe which has an end cap threaded on one end. If a pipe is not available, you may use a dry tin can or a glass jar.
2. Insert blasting cap just beneath the surface of the explosive mix.

Note: Confining the open end of the container will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.

## 1.8 Fertilizer AN-Al Explosive

A dry explosive mixture can be made from ammonium nitrate fertilizer combined with fine aluminum powder. This explosive can be detonated with a blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Ammonium nitrate fertilizer (not less than 32% nitrogen) | Farm or Feed Store
Fine aluminum bronzing powder | Paint Store
Measuring container (cup, tablespoon, etc.) |
Mixing container (wide bowl, can, etc.) |
Two flat boards (one should be comfortably held in hand and one very large, i.e. 2 x 4 and 36 x 36 inches) |
Storage container (jar, can, etc.) |
Blasting cap |
Wooden rod – 1/4 inch diameter |
Pipe, can or jar |

#### Procedure

1. Method I – To Obtain a Low Velocity Explosive
   1. Use measuring container to measure four parts fertilizer to one part aluminum powder and pour into the mixing container. (Example: 4 cups of fertilizer to 1 cup aluminum powder.)
   2. Mix ingredients well with the wooden rod.
2. Method II – To Obtain a Much Higher Velocity Explosive
   1. Spread a handful at a time of the fertilizer on the large flat board and rub vigorously with the other board until the large particles are crushed into a very fine powder that looks like flour (approximately 10 minutes per handful).
      Note: Proceed with step b below as soon as possible since the powder may take moisture from the air and become spoiled.
   2. Follow steps a and b of Method I.
3. Store the explosive mixture in a waterproof container, such as glass jar, steel pipe, etc., until ready to use.

#### How to Use

Follow steps 1 and 2 of How to Use in section 1.7.

## 1.9 “Red or White Powder” Propellant

“Red or White Powder” Propellant may be prepared in a simple, safe manner. The formulation described below will result in approximately 2-1/2 pounds of powder. This is a small arms propellant and should only be used in weapons with 1/2 inch inside diameter or less, such as the Match Gun or the 7.62 Carbine, but not pistols.

Materials Required
Heat source (kitchen stove or open fire)
2 gallon metal bucket
Measuring cup (8 ounces or 240 milliliters)
Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
Metal sheet or aluminum foil (at least 18 inches square)
Flat window screen (at least 1 foot square)
Potassium nitrate (granulated) 2-1/3 cups (560 milliliters)
White sugar (granulated) 2 cups (480 milliliters)
Powdered ferric oxide (rust) 1/8 cup (30 milliliters) (if available)
Clear water, 3-1/2 cups (840 milliliters)

#### Procedure

1. Place the sugar, potassium nitrate, and water in the bucket. Heat with a low flame, stirring occasionally until the sugar and potassium nitrate dissolve.
2. If available, add the ferric oxide (rust) to the solution. Increase the flame under the mixture until it boils gently.

   Note: The mixture will retain the rust coloration.

3. Stir and scrape the bucket sides occasionally until the mixture is reduced to one quarter of its original volume, then stir continuously.
4. As the water evaporates, the mixture will become thicker until it reaches the consistency of cooked breakfast cereal or homemade fudge. At this stage of thickness, remove the bucket from the heat source, and spread the mass on the metal sheet.
5. While the material cools, score it with the spoon or spatula in crisscrossed furrows about 1 inch apart.
6. Allow the material to air dry, preferably in the sun. As it dries, rescore it occasionally (about every 20 minutes) to aid drying.
7. When the material has dried to a point where it is moist and soft but not sticky to the touch, place a small spoonful on the screen. Rub the material back and forth against the screen mesh with spoon or other flat object until the material is granulated into small worm-like particles.
8. After granulation, return the material to the sun to dry completely.

## 1.10 Nitric Acid/Nitrobenzene (“Hellhoffite”) Explosive

An explosive munition can be made from mononitrobenzene and nitric acid. It is a simple explosive to prepare. Just pour the mononitrobenzene into the acid and stir.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Nitric acid | Field grade or 90% concentrated (specific gravity of 1.48)
Mononitrobenzene (also known as nitrobenzene) | Drug store (oil of mirbane) Chemical supply house Industries (used as solvent)
Acid resistant measuring containers | Glass, clay, etc.
Acid resistant mixing rod |
Blasting cap |
Wax |
Steel pipe, end cap and tape |
Bottle or jar |

Note: Prepare mixture just before use.

#### Procedure

1. Add 1 volume (cup, quart, etc.) mononitrobenzene to 2 volumes nitric acid in bottle or jar.
2. Mix ingredients well by stirring with acid resistant rod.

Caution: Nitric acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash off immediately with large amount of water. Nitrobenzene is toxic; do not inhale fumes.

#### How to Use

1. Wax blasting cap, pipe and end cap.
2. Thread end cap onto pipe.
3. Pour mixture into pipe.
4. Insert and tape blasting cap just beneath surface of mixture.

Note: Combining the open end of the pipe will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.

## 1.11 Optimized Process for Cellulose/Acid Explosives

An acid type explosive can be made from nitric acid and white paper or cotton cloth. This explosive can be detonated with a commercial #8 or any military blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Nitric Acid | Industrial metal processors, 90% concentrated (specific gravity of 1.48) Field grade (section 1.4)
White unprinted, unsized paper | Paper towels, napkins
Clean white cotton cloth | Clothing, sheets, etc.
Acid resistant container | Wax coated pipe or can, ceramic pipe, glass jar, etc. Heavy-walled glass containers
Aluminum foil or acid resistant material | Food stores
Protective gloves |
Blasting cap |
Wax |

#### Procedure

1. Put on gloves.
2. Spread out a layer of paper or cloth on aluminum foil and sprinkle with nitric acid until thoroughly soaked. If aluminum foil is unavailable, use an acid resistant material (glass, ceramic or wood).

   Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.

3. Place another layer of paper or cloth on top of the acid-soaked sheet and repeat step 2 above. Repeat as often as necessary.
4. Roll up the aluminum foil containing the acid-soaked sheets and insert the roll into the acid resistant container.

   Note: If glass, ceramic or wooden tray is used, pick up sheets with two wooden sticks and load into container.

5. Wax blasting cap.
6. Insert the blasting cap in the center of the rolled sheets. Allow 5 minutes before detonating the explosive.

## 1.12 Methyl Nitrate Dynamite

A moist explosive mixture can be made from sulfuric acid, nitric acid and methyl alcohol. This explosive can be detonated with a blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Sulfuric acid | Clear battery acid boiled until white fumes appear
Nitric acid | Field grade nitric acid (section 1.4) or 90% concentration (1.48 specific gravity)
Methyl alcohol | Methanol Wood alcohol (not denatured alcohol) Antifreeze (nonpermanent)
Eyedropper or syringe with glass tube |
Large diameter glass (2 quart) jar |
Narrow glass jars (1 quart) |
Absorbent (fine sawdust, shredded paper, shredded cloth) |
Cup |
Pan (3 to 5 gallon) |
Teaspoon |
Wooden stick |
Steel pipe with end cap |
Blasting cap |
Water |
Tray |

#### Procedure

1. Add 24 teaspoons of sulfuric acid to 16-1/2 teaspoons of nitric acid in the 2 quart jar.

   Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.

2. Place the jar in the pan (3 to 5 gallon) filled with cold water or a stream and allow acid to cool.
3. Rapidly swirl the jar to create a whirlpool in the liquid (without splashing) while keeping the bottom portion of the jar in the water.
4. While continually swirling, add to mixture, 1/2 teaspoon at a time, 13-1/2 teaspoons of methyl alcohol, allowing mixture to cool at least one minute between additions.

   Caution: If there is a sudden increase in the amount of fumes produced or if the solution suddenly turns much darker or begins to froth, dump solution in the water within 10 seconds. This will halt the reaction and prevent an accident.

5. After the final addition of methyl alcohol, swirl for another 30 to 45 seconds.
6. Carefully pour the solution into one of the narrow glass jars. Allow jar to stand in water for approximately 5 minutes until two layers separate.
7. With an eyedropper or syringe, remove top layer and carefully put into another narrow glass jar. This liquid is the explosive.

   Caution: Explosive is shock sensitive.

8. Add an equal quantity of water to the explosive and swirl. Allow mixture to separate again as in step 6. The explosive is now the bottom layer.
9. Carefully remove the top layer with the eyedropper or syringe and discard.
10. Place one firmly packed cup of absorbent in the tray.
11. While stirring with the wooden stick, slowly add explosive until the mass is very damp but not wet enough to drip. Explosive is ready to use.

Note: If mixture becomes too wet, add more absorbent.

If storage of explosive is required, store in a sealed container to prevent evaporation.

Caution: Do not handle liquid explosive or allow to contact skin. If this happens, flush away immediately with large quantity of water. Keep grit, sand or dirt out of mixture.

#### How to Use

1. Spoon this mixture into an iron or steel pipe which has an end cap threaded on one end. If a pipe is not available, you may use a dry tin can or a glass jar.
2. Insert blasting cap just beneath the surface of the explosive mix.

Note: Confining the open end of the container will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.

## 1.13 Urea Nitrate Explosive

Urea nitrate can be used as an explosive munition. It is easy to prepare from nitric acid and urine. It can be detonated with a blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Nitric acid, 90% concentration (1.48 specific gravity) | Field grade (section 1.4) or industrial metal processors
Urine | Animals (including humans)
2 one gallon heat and acid-resistant containers (glass, clay, etc.) |
Filtering material | Paper towel or finely textured cotton cloth (shirt, sheet, etc.)
Aluminum powder (optional or if available) | Paint stores
Heat source |
Measuring containers (cup and spoon) |
Water |
Tape |
Blasting cap |
Steel pipe and end cap(s) |

Note: Prepare mixture just before use.

#### Procedure

1. Boil a large quantity of urine (10 cups) to approximately 1/10 its volume (1 cup) in one of the containers over the heat source.
2. Filter the urine into the other container through the filtering material to remove impurities.
3. Slowly add 1/3 cup of nitric acid to the filtered urine, and let mixture stand for 1 hour.

   Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.

4. Filter mixture as in step 2. Urea nitrate crystals will collect on the paper.
5. Wash the urea nitrate by pouring water over it.
6. Remove urea nitrate crystals from the filtering material and allow to dry thoroughly (approximately 16 hours).

Note: The drying time can be reduced to two hours if a hot (not boiling) water bath is used. See step 5 of section 1.15.

#### How to Use

1. Spoon the urea nitrate crystals into an iron or steel pipe which has an end cap threaded on one end.
2. Insert blasting cap just beneath the surface of the urea nitrate crystals.

Notes: This explosive can be made more effective by mixing with aluminum powder (can be obtained in paint stores) in the ratio of 4 to 1. For example, mix 1 cup of aluminum powder with 4 cups of urea nitrate.

Confining the open end of the container will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.

## 1.14 Preparation of Copper Sulfate (Pentahydrate)

Copper sulfate is a required material for the preparation of TACC (section 1.16).

Materials Required
Pieces of copper or copper wire
Dilute sulfuric acid (battery acid)
Potassium nitrate (section 1.2) or nitric acid, 90% concentration (1.48 specific gravity) (section 1.4)
Alcohol
Water
Two 1 pint jars or glasses, heat resistant
Paper towels
Pan
Wooden rod or stick
Improvised scale (section 7.8)
Cup
Container
Heat source
Teaspoon

#### Procedure

1. Place 10 grams of copper pieces into one of the pint jars. Add 1 cup (240 milliliters) of dilute sulfuric acid to the copper.
2. Add 12 grams of potassium nitrate or 1-1/2 teaspoons of nitric acid to the mixture.

   Note: Nitric acid gives a product of greater purity.

3. Heat the mixture in a pan of simmering hot water bath until the bubbling has ceased (approximately 2 hours). The mixture will turn to a blue color.

   Caution: The above procedure will cause strong toxic fumes. Perform step 3 in an open, well ventilated area.

4. Pour the hot blue solution, but not the copper, into the other pint jar. Allow solution to cool at room temperature. Crystals will form at the bottom of the jar. Discard the unreacted copper pieces in the first jar.
5. Carefully pour away the liquid from the crystals. Crush crystals into a powder with wooden rod or stick.
6. Add 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of alcohol to the powder while stirring.
7. Filter the solution through a paper towel into a container to collect the crystals. Wash the crystals left on the paper towel three times, using 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) portions of alcohol each time.
8. Air dry the copper sulfate crystals for 2 hours.

Note: Drying time can be reduced to 1/2 hour by use of hot, not boiling, water bath (see step 3).

## 1.15 Reclamation of RDX from C4

RDX can be obtained from C4 explosive with the use of gasoline. It can be used as a booster explosive for detonators (section 6.13) or as a high explosive charge.

Materials Required
Gasoline |
C4 explosive
2 pint glass jars, wide mouth
Paper towels
Stirring rod (glass or wood)
Water | Optional (RDX can be air dried instead)
Ceramic or glass dish
Pan
Heat Source
Teaspoon |
Cup
Tape

#### Procedure

1. Place 1-1/2 teaspoons (15 grams) of C4 explosive in one of the pint jars. Add 1 cup (240 milliliters) of gasoline.

   Note: These quantities can be in creased to obtain more RDX. For example, use 2 gallons of gasoline per 1 cup of C4.

2. Knead and stir the C4 with the rod until the C4 has broken down into small particles. Allow mixture to stand for 1/2 hour.
3. Stir the mixture again until a fine white powder remains on the bottom of the jar.
4. Filter the mixture through a paper towel into the other glass jar. Wash the particles collected on the paper towel with 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of gasoline. Discard the waste liquid.
5. Place the RDX particles in a glass or ceramic dish. Set the dish in a pan of hot water, not boiling, and dry for a period of 1 hour.

Note: The RDX particles may be air dried for a period of 2 to 3 hours.

## 1.16 TACC (Tetramminecopper (II) Chlorate)

Tetramminecopper (II) chlorate is a primary explosive that can be made from sodium chlorate, copper sulfate and ammonia. This explosive is to be used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15) in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Sodium chlorate | Section 1.23 Medicine Weed killer, hardware store
Copper sulfate | Section 1.14 Insecticide, hardware store Water purifying agent
Ammonia hydroxide | Household ammonia Smelling salts
Alcohol, 95% pure |
Wax, clay, pitch, etc. |
Water |
Bottle, narrow mouth (wine or coke) |
Bottles , wide mouth (mason jars) |
Tubing (rubber, copper, steel) to fit narrow mouth bottle |
Teaspoon |
Improvised scale | Section 7.8
Heat source |
Paper towel |
Pan |
Tape |
Cup |

#### Procedure

1. Measure 1/3 teaspoon (2-1/2 grams) of sodium chlorate into a wide mouth bottle. Add 10 teaspoons of alcohol.
2. Place the wide mouth bottle in a pan of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of copper sulfate to the mixture. Heat for a period of 30 minutes just under the boiling point and stir occasionally.

   Caution: Keep solution away from flame.

   Note: Keep volume of solution constant by adding additional alcohol approximately every 10 minutes.

3. Remove solution from pan and allow to cool. Color of solution will change from blue to light green. Filter solution through a paper towel into another wide mouth bottle. Store solution until ready for step 6.
4. Add 1 cup (250 milliliters) of ammonia to the narrow mouth bottle.
5. Place tubing into the neck of bottle so that it extends about 1-1/2 inches (4 cm) inside bottle. Seal tubing to bottle with wax, clay, pitch, etc.
6. Place free end of tubing into the chlorate-alcohol-sulfate solution (step 3). Heat bottle containing ammonia in a pan of hot water, but not boiling, for approximately 10 minutes.
7. Bubble ammonia gas through the chlorate-alcohol-sulfate solution, approximately 10 minutes, until the color changes from light green to dark blue. Continue bubbling for another 10 minutes.

   Caution: At this point the solution is a primary explosive. Keep away from flame.

8. Remove the solution from the pan and reduce the volume to about 1/3 of its original volume by evaporating in the open air or in a stream of air.

   Note: Pour solution into a flat container for faster evaporation.

9. Filter the solution through a paper towel into a wide mouth bottle to collect crystals. Wash crystals with 1 teaspoon of alcohol. Tape and set aside to dry (approximately 16 hours).

Caution: Explosive is shock and flame sensitive. Store in a capped container.

Note: The drying time can be reduced to 2 hours if a hot (not boiling) water bath is used.

## 1.17 HMTD

HMTD is a primary explosive that can be made from hexamethylenetetramine, hydrogen peroxide and citric acid. This explosive is to be used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15) in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Hexamethylenetetramine | Drugstores under names of urotropine, hexamin, methenamine, etc. Army heat tablets
Hydrogen peroxide | 6% hair bleach (or stronger if possible)
Citric acid | Drug stores or food stores (“Sour Salt”)
Containers, bottles or glasses |
Paper towels |
Teaspoon |
Pan |
Water |
Tape |

#### Procedure

1. Measure 9 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide into a container.
2. In 3 portions, dissolve 2-1/2 teaspoons of crushed hexamethylenetetramine in the peroxide.
3. Keep the solution cool for 30 minutes by placing container in a pan of cold water.
4. In 5 portions, dissolve 4-1/2 teaspoons of crushed citric acid in the hexamethylenetetramine-peroxide solution.
5. Permit solution to stand at room temperature until solid particles form at the bottom of container.

   Note: Complete precipitation will take place in 8 to 24 hours.

   Caution: At this point the mixture is a primary explosive. Keep away from flame.

6. Filter the mixture through a paper towel into a container to collect the solid particles.
7. Wash the solid particles collected in the paper towel with 6 teaspoons of water by pouring the water over them. Discard the liquid in the container.
8. Place these explosive particles in a container and allow to dry.

Caution: Handle dry explosive with great care. Do not scrape or handle it roughly. Keep away from sparks or open flames. Store in cool, dry place.

## 1.18 Potassium or Sodium Nitrite and Litharge (Lead Monoxide)

Potassium or sodium nitrite is needed to prepare DDNP (section 1.19), and litharge is required for the preparation of lead picrate (section 1.20).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Lead metal (small pieces or chips) | Plumbing supply store
Potassium (or sodium) nitrate | Field grade (section 1.2) or Drug Store
Methyl (wood) alcohol |
Iron pipe with end cap |
Iron rod or screwdriver |
Paper towels |
2 glass jars, wide mouth |
Metal pan |
Heat source (hot coals or blow torch) |
Improvised scale (section 7.8) |
Cup |
Water |
Pan |

#### Procedure

1. Mix 12 grams of lead and 4 grams of potassium or sodium nitrate in a jar. Place the mixture in the iron pipe.
2. Heat iron pipe in a bed of hot coals or with blow torch for 30 minutes to 1 hour. (Mixture will change to a yellow color.)
3. Remove the iron pipe from the heat source and allow to cool. Chip out the yellow material formed in the iron pipe and place the chips in the glass jar.
4. Add 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of methyl alcohol to the chips.
5. Heat the glass jar containing the mixture in a hot water bath for approximately 2 minutes (heat until there is a noticeable reaction between chips and alcohol; solution will turn darker).
6. Filter the mixture through a paper towel into the other glass jar. The material left on the paper towel is lead monoxide.
7. Remove the lead monoxide and wash it twice through a paper towel using 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of hot water each time. Air dry before using.
8. Place the jar with the liquid (from step 6) in a hot water bath (as in step 5) and heat until the alcohol has evaporated. The powder remaining in the jar after evaporation is potassium or sodium nitrite.

Note: Nitrite has a strong tendency to absorb water from the atmosphere and should be stored in a closed container.

## 1.19 DDNP

DDNP is a primary explosive used in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13). It is to be used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Picric acid | Section 1.21
Flowers of sulfur |
Lye (sodium hydroxide) |
Sulfuric acid, diluted | Motor vehicle batteries
Potassium or sodium nitrite | Section 1.18
Water |
2 glass cups, heat resistant, (Pyrex) |
Stirring rod (glass or wood) |
Improvised scale | Section 7.8
Paper towels |
Teaspoon |
Tablespoon |
Eyedropper |
Heat source |
Containers |
Tape |

#### Procedure

1. In one of the glass cups, mix 1/2 gram of lye with 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of warm water.
2. Dissolve 1 teaspoon (3 grams) of picric acid in the water-lye solution. Store until ready for step 5.
3. Place 1/4 teaspoon (1 milliliter) of water in the other glass cup. Add 1/2 teaspoon (2-1/2 grams) of sulfur and 1/3 teaspoon (2-1/2 grams) of lye to the water.
4. Boil solution over heat source until color turns dark red. Remove and allow solution to cool.
5. In three portions, add this sulfur-lye solution to the picric acid-lye solution (step 2); stir while pouring. Allow mixture to cool.
6. Filter the mixture through a paper towel into a container. Small red particles will collect on the paper. Discard the liquid in the container.
7. Dissolve the red particles in 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) of boiling water.
8. Remove and filter the mixture through a paper towel as in step 6. Discard the particles left on the paper.
9. Using an eyedropper, slowly add the sulfuric acid to the filtered solution until it turns orange-brown.
10. Add 1/2 teaspoon (2-1/2 grams) more of sulfuric acid to the solution. Allow the solution to cool to room temperature.
11. In a separate container, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon (1.8 grams) of potassium or sodium nitrite in 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) of water.
12. Add this solution in one portion, while stirring, to the orange-solution. Allow the mixture to stand for 10 minutes. The mixture will turn light brown.

    Caution: At this point the mixture is a primary explosive. Keep away from flame.

13. Filter the mixture through a paper towel. Wash the particles left on the paper with 4 teaspoons (20 milliliters) of water.
14. Allow the particles to dry (approximately 16 hours).

Caution: Explosive is shock and flame sensitive. Store explosive in a capped container.

Note: The drying time can be reduced to 2 hours if a hot (not boiling) water bath is used. See section 1.16.

## 1.20 Preparation of Lead Picrate

Lead picrate is used as a primary explosive in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13). It is to be used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Litharge (lead monoxide) | Section 1.18 or plumbing supplies
Picric Acid | Section 1.21
Wood alcohol (methanol) | Paint removers; some antifreezes
Wooden or plastic rod |
Dish or saucer (china or glass) |
Teaspoon |
Improvised Scale | Section 7.8
Containers |
Flat pan |
Heat source (optional) |
Water (optional) |

#### Procedure

1. Weigh 2 grams each of picric acid and lead monoxide. Place each in a separate container.
2. Place 2 teaspoons (10 milliliters) of the alcohol in a dish. Add the picric acid to the alcohol and stir with the wooden or plastic rod.
3. Add the lead monoxide to the mixture while stirring.

   Caution: At this point the solution is a primary explosive. Keep away from flame.

4. Continue stirring the mixture until the alcohol has evaporated. The mixture will suddenly thicken.
5. Stir mixture occasionally (to stop lumps from forming) until a powder is formed. A few lumps will remain.

   Caution: Be very careful of dry material forming on the inside of the container.

6. Spread this powdered mixture, the lead picrate, in a flat pan to air dry.

Note: If possible, dry the mixture in a hot, not boiling, water bath for a period of 2 hours.

## 1.21 Preparation of Picric Acid from Aspirin

Picric acid can be used as a booster explosive in detonators (section 6.13), a high explosive charge, or as an intermediate to preparing lead picrate (section 1.20) or DDNP (section 1.19).

Materials Required
Aspirin tablets (5 grains or 325 mg per tablet)
Alcohol, 95% pure
Sulfuric acid, concentrated, (battery acid – boil until white fumes appear)
Potassium nitrate (section 1.2)
Water
Paper towels
Canning jar, 1 pint
Rod (glass or wood)
Glass containers
Ceramic or glass dish
Cup
Teaspoon
Tablespoon
Pan
Heat Source
Tape

#### Procedure

1. Crush 20 aspirin tablets in a glass container. Add 1 teaspoon of water and work into a paste.
2. Add approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup of alcohol (100 milliliters) to the aspirin paste; stir while pouring.
3. Filter the alcohol-aspirin solution through a paper towel into another glass container. Discard the solid left on the paper towel.
4. Pour the filtered solution into a ceramic or glass dish.
5. Evaporate the alcohol and water from the solution by placing the dish into a pan of hot water. White powder will remain in the dish after evaporation.

   Note: Water in pan should be at hot bath temperature, not boiling, approximately 160° to 180°F. It should not burn the hands.

6. Pour 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) of concentrated sulfuric acid into a canning jar. Add the white powder to the sulfuric acid.
7. Heat canning jar of sulfuric acid in a pan of simmering hot water bath for 15 minutes; then remove jar from the bath. Solution will turn to a yellow-orange color.
8. Add 3 level teaspoons (15 grams) of potassium nitrate in three portions to the yellow-orange solution; stir vigorously during additions. Solution will turn red, and then back to a yellow-orange color.
9. Allow the solution to cool to ambient or room temperature while stirring occasionally.
10. Slowly pour the solution, while stirring, into 1-1/4 cup (300 milliliters) of cold water and allow to cool.
11. Filter the solution through a paper towel into a glass container. Light yellow particles will collect on the paper towel.
12. Wash the light yellow particles with 2 tablespoons (25 milliliters) of water. Discard the waste liquid in the container.
13. Place particles in ceramic dish and set in a hot water bath, as in step 5, for 2 hours.

## 1.22 Double Salts

Double salts is used as a primary explosive in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13). It can be made in the field from silver (coins), nitric acid, calcium carbide, and water.

Materials Required
Nitric acid (90% concentration) (section 1.4)
Silver metal (silver coin, about 5/8 inch diameter)
Calcium carbide (acetylene or calcium carbide lamps)
Rubber and glass tubing (approximately 1/4 inch inside diameter)
Paper towels
Heat-resistant bottles or ceramic jugs, 1 to 2 quart capacity, and one cork to fit. (Punch hole in cork to fit tubing.)
Teaspoon (aluminum, stainless steel or wax-coated) or equivalent measure
Glass container
Heat source
Long narrow jar (olive jar)
Tape
Water
Alcohol

#### Procedure

1. Dilute 2-1/4 teaspoons of nitric acid with 1-1/2 teaspoons of water in a glass container by adding the acid to the water.
2. Dissolve a silver coin (a silver dime) in the diluted nitric acid. The solution will turn to a green color.

   Note: It may be necessary to warm the container to completely dissolve the silver coin.

   Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.

3. Pour solution into a long narrow (olive) jar and place it in a bottle of hot water. Crystals will form in the solution; heat until crystals dissolve.
4. While still heating and after crystals have dissolved, place 10 teaspoons of calcium carbide in another glass bottle and add 1 teaspoon of water. After the reaction has started add another teaspoon of water. Then set up as shown.
5. Bubble acetylene through the solution for 5 to 8 minutes. A brown vapor will be given off and white flakes will appear in the silver solution.
6. Remove the silver solution from the heat source and allow it to cool. Filter the solution through a paper towel into a glass container. Green crystals will collect on the paper.
7. Wash the solids collected on the paper towel with 12 teaspoons of alcohol. The solid material will turn white while the solvent in the container will have a green color.
8. Place the white solid material on a clean paper towel to air dry.

Caution: Handle dry explosive with great care. Do not scrape or handle it roughly. Keep away from sparks or open flames. Store in cool, dry place.

## 1.23 Sodium Chlorate

Sodium chlorate is a strong oxidizer used in the manufacture of explosives. It can be used in place of potassium chlorate (section 1.1).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
2 carbon or lead rods (1 inch diameter x 5 inches long) | Dry cell batteries (2-1/2 inches diameter x 7 inches long) or plumbing supply store
Salt or, ocean water | Grocery store or ocean
Sulfuric acid, diluted | Motor vehicle batteries
Motor vehicle |
Water |
2 wires, 16 gauge (3/64 inch diameter approximately), 6 feet long, insulated |
Gasoline |
1 gallon glass jar, wide mouth (5 inches diameter x 6 inches high approximately) |
Sticks |
String |
Teaspoon |
Trays |
Cup |
Heavy cloth |
Knife |
Large flat pan or tray |

#### Procedure

1. Mix 1/2 cup of salt into the one gallon glass jar with 3 liters (3 quarts) of water.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of battery acid to the solution and stir vigorously for 5 minutes.
3. Strip about 4 inches of insulation from both ends of the 2 wires.
4. With knife and sticks shape 2 strips of wood 1 x 1/8 x 1-1/2. Tie the wood strips to the lead or carbon rods so that they are 1-1/2 inches apart.
5. Connect the rods to the battery in a motor vehicle with the insulated wire.
6. Submerge 4-1/2 inches of the rods into the salt water solution.
7. With gear in neutral position, start the vehicle engine. Depress the accelerator approximately 1/5 of its full travel.
8. Run the engine with the accelerator in this position for 2 hours; then, shut it down 2 hours.
9. Repeat this cycle for a total of 64 hours while maintaining the level of the acid-salt water solution in the glass jar.

   Caution: This arrangement employs voltages which may be dangerous to personnel. Do not touch bare wire leads while engine is running.

10. Shut off the engine. Remove the rods from the glass jar and disconnect wire leads from the battery.
11. Filter the solution through the heavy cloth into a flat pan or tray, leaving the sediment at the bottom of the glass jar.
12. Allow the water in the filtered solution to evaporate at room temperature (approximately 16 hours). The residue is approximately 60% or more sodium chlorate which is pure enough to be used as an explosive ingredient.

## 1.24 Mercury Fulminate

Mercury fulminate is used as a primary explosive in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13). It is to be used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15).

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Nitric Acid, 90% concentration (1.48 specific gravity) | Field grade (section 1.4) or industrial metal processors
Mercury | Thermometers, mercury switches, old radio tubes
Ethyl (grain) alcohol (90%) |
Filtering material | Paper towels
Teaspoon measure (1/4, 1/2, and 1 teaspoon capacity) – aluminum, stainless steel or wax-coated |
Heat source |
Clean wooden stick |
Clean water |
Glass containers |
Tape |
Syringe |

#### Procedure

1. Dilute 5 teaspoons of nitric acid with 2-1/2 teaspoons of clean water in a glass container by adding the acid to the water.
2. Dissolve 1/8 teaspoon of mercury in the diluted nitric acid. This will yield dark red fumes.

   Note: It may be necessary to add water, one drop at a time, to the mercury-acid solution in order to start reaction.

   Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.

3. Warm 10 teaspoons of the alcohol in a container until the alcohol feels warm to the inside of the wrist.
4. Pour the metal-acid solution into the warm alcohol. Reaction should start in less than 5 minutes. Dense white fumes will be given off during reaction. As time lapses, the fumes will become less dense. Allow 10 to 15 minutes to complete reaction. Fulminate will settle to bottom.

   Caution: This reaction generates large quantities of toxic, flammable fumes. The process must be conducted outdoors or in a well ventilated area, away from sparks or open flames. Do not inhale fumes.

5. Filter the solution through a piper towel into a container. Crystals may stick to the side of the container. If so, tilt and squirt water down the sides of the container until all the material collects on the filter paper.
6. Wash the crystals with 6 teaspoons of ethyl alcohol.
7. Allow these mercury fulminate crystals to air dry.

Caution: Handle dry explosive with great care. Do not scrape or handle it roughly. Keep away from sparks or open flames. Store in cool, dry place.

## 1.25 Sodium Chlorate and Sugar or Aluminum Explosive

An explosive munition can be made from sodium chlorate combined with granular sugar, or aluminum powder. This explosive can be detonated with a commercial #8 or a Military J-2 blasting cap.

Materials Required | Source
--- | ---
Sodium chlorate | Section 1.23
Granular sugar | Food store
Aluminum powder | Paint store
Wooden rod or stick |
Bottle or jar |
Blasting cap |
Steel pipe (threaded at one end), end cap and tape |
Wax |
Measuring container (cup, quart, etc.) |

#### Procedure

1. Add three volumes (cups, quarts, etc.) sodium chlorate to one volume aluminum, or two granular sugar, in bottle or jar.
2. Mix ingredients well by stirring with the wooden rod or stick.

#### How to Use

1. Wax blasting cap, pipe and end cap.
2. Thread end cap onto pipe.
3. Pour mixture into pipe.
4. Insert and tape blasting cap just beneath surface of mixture.

Note: Confining the open end of the pipe will add to the effectiveness of the explosive.