TM 31-210
Improvised Munitions Handbook
| Section I |
No. 10 |
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NITRIC ACID/NITROBENZENE ("HELLHOFFITE") EXPLOSIVE |
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| 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: | SOURCES: |
| 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 | |
| NOTE: Prepare mixture just before use. | |
| PROCEDURE: | |
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1. Add 1 volume (cup, quart, etc.) mononitrobenzene to 2 volumes nitric acid in bottle or jar. |
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2. Mix ingredients well by stirring with acid resistant rod.
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CAUTION: Nitric acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash off immediately with a large amount of water. Nitrobenzene is toxic; do not inhale fumes. |
| HOW TO USE: | |
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1. Wax blasting cap, pipe and end cap. |
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2. Thread end cap onto pipe. |
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3. Pour mixture into pipe. |
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4. Insert and tape blasting cap just beneath surface of mixture. |
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NOTE: Confining the open end of the pipe will add to the effectiveness of the explosive. |
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