Module 4.1 Introduction to Explosives

Explosive

A reactive substance that can produce an explosion when its potential energy is released suddenly, usually accompanied by light, heat, sound, and pressure.

Explosion

A violent bursting or expansion caused by the release of energy from a confined area, often resulting in heat, light, sound, and pressure.

Types of Explosions

Includes mechanical explosions, chemical explosions, and nuclear explosions.

Mechanical Explosion

An explosion that occurs when internal pressure causes an object to shatter or burst, such as with gas or steam boilers.

Chemical Explosion

An explosion where energy is released during a chemical reaction, typically involving explosives like gunpowder.

Shockwave

A blast wave generated when the atmosphere surrounding an explosion is forcibly pushed back.

Overpressure

Extreme positive pressure from an explosion that can cause physical damage to the body, which decreases with distance from the explosion.

Mercury Fulminate

An explosive compound rediscovered in the late 18th century, proposed for use as a percussion initiator.

Nitrocellulose

An explosive material produced by nitrating cellulose, associated with the discovery by Schonbein and Bottger.

Blackpowder

The most primitive explosive known, made from a mixture of saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal.

Rizal Day Bombing

A series of bombings on December 30, 2000, in Metro Manila that killed 22 people and injured over 100, taking place during a national holiday.

Valentine Bombings (2005)

A bombing incident on February 14, 2005, involving multiple explosions in Davao and Makati, resulting in nine deaths and over 100 injuries.

Super Ferry 14 Bombing (2004)

An explosion on February 26, 2004, on the MV Super Ferry 14 incident that led to the death of over a hundred passengers after a bomb was planted.

Philippine Laws on Explosives

Legal provisions regulating the possession, manufacture, and dealing with explosives in the Philippines, including PD 1866, RA 8294, and RA 9516.

MC 2012-009

A directive for the handling of explosives and explosive ingredients for PNP units and industry stakeholders.

Types of Explosives

Includes Trinitrotoluene (TNT), smokeless powder, dynamite, and gelignite, each with distinct properties and uses.

C-4

A powerful explosive that is waterproof and malleable, utilized in various military applications.

Abu Sayyaf

A terrorist group in the Philippines known for bombings and extortion, including attacks like the Valentine Bombings.