TM 31-210
Improvised Munitions Handbook
| Section I |
No. 11 |
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OPTIMIZED PROCESS FOR CELLULOSE/ACID EXPLOSIVES |
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| 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: | SOURCES: |
| Nitric acid | Industrial metal processors, 90% concentrated
(specific gravity of 1.48) Field grade (See Section I, No. 4) |
| White unprinted, unsized paper | Paper towels, napkins |
| Clean white cotton cloth | Clothing, sheets, etc. |
| Acid resistant container | Wax coasted pipe or can, ceramic pipe, glass
jar, etc. Heavy-walled glass container |
| Aluminum foil or acid resistant material | Food stores |
| Protective gloves | |
| Blasting cap | |
| Wax | |
| PROCEDURE: | |
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1. Put on gloves. |
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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). |
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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. |
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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. |
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4. Roll up the aluminum foil containing the acid-soaked sheets and insert the roll into the acid resistant container. |
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NOTE: If glass, ceramic or wooden tray is used, pick up sheets with two wooden sticks and load into container. |
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5. Wax blasting cap. |
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6. Insert the blasting cap in the center of the rolled sheets. Allow 5 minutes before detonating the explosive. |
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