6-Explosive Devices

WMD Awareness Level Response Training Explosive Devices

• Presented by: Office of Grants and Training, National Domestic Preparedness Consortium, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Introduction to Explosive Devices

• Objectives

  • Differentiate characteristics of explosives.

  • Recognize indicators of explosive manufacture.

  • Recognize potential explosive indicators.

Key Concepts and Skills (V8.2.1 RAIN)

• Recognize characteristics of explosive devices.

• Avoid hazards through protective measures.

• Isolate hazards from explosive devices.

• Notify appropriate resources and authorities during WMD events.

Recognizing Explosive Characteristics

• Types of Explosives

  • Pyrotechnics: Includes fireworks, road flares, smoke grenades, and thermites.

  • Propellants: Such as black powder, smokeless powders, both solid and liquid rocket fuels.

  • Explosives: Examples include TNT, C4, and dynamite.

Explosive Stimuli

• Triggers for Detonation:

  • Heat: Fire or atmospheric temperature changes.

  • Friction, Impact, Electrostatic Discharge: Can lead to accidental detonations.

  • Radio Frequency: No radio transmissions within 300 feet of suspicious or confirmed IEDs.

Categories of High Explosives

• Types:

  • Primary Explosives: Highly sensitive.

  • Secondary Explosives: Less sensitive, such as TNT and C4.

  • Tertiary Explosives: Most stable, like ammonium nitrate.

Explosive Terminology

• Low Explosives: Deflagrate at < 3300 ft/sec (smokeless powder, black powder).

• High Explosives: Detonate at > 3300 ft/sec (includes primary, secondary, and tertiary explosives).

Improvised Explosives (IEDs)

• Common Materials:

  • Potassium chlorate: Appearance similar to white crystals or powder.

  • Peroxide-based explosives: Dry form resembles crack cocaine.

  • Ammonium nitrate: Common in cold packs when mixed with aluminum powder.

Notable Incident: TATP (Triacetone Triperoxide)

• Described as the "Mother of Satan" explosive.

• Notably used in an incident on October 1, 2005, near Oklahoma University, exploding accidentally.

• TATP characteristics and increased detection chances in the U.S.

Chemical Components of TATP

• Components:

  • Acetone: Commonly known as nail polish remover, paint thinner.

  • Acids: Includes sulfuric, nitric, hydrochloric.

  • Hydrogen peroxide: Found in disinfectants and hair products.

Domestic Incidents Involving TATP

• Example: October 1, 2005, incident involving a student and discovered TATP production equipment at his residence.

• Authorities found extensive residuals and materials related to TATP manufacturing.

Equipment Indicating TATP Production

• Evidence of production may include:

  • Hydrogen peroxide (>= 6% strength).

  • Acetone and any acids (e.g., citric acid).

  • Laboratory equipment such as flasks, beakers, ice baths, etc.

Seizure Incident

• June 12, 2006: Discovery of an explosive substance resembling crystal meth.

• Testing confirmed it as TATP, highlighting the need for cautious handling due to its visual similarity to common drugs.

Further Domestic Incidents

• July 19, 2006 explosion in Texas City led to fatalities, revealing associated extremist activities.

• Residual explosive materials led to evacuations and safety protocols implemented by officials.

International Incidents

• Notable cases include the July 7, 2005, bombings in London using peroxide-based explosives.

• Capacity for TATP in various explosive devices, including small devices and large vehicle bombs.

IED Components

• Key components of improvised explosive devices include:

  • Power sources (batteries).

  • Initiators (blast caps).

  • Main explosives.

  • Switches (arming devices).

  • Shrapnel and fragmentation to maximize casualties.

Explosive Incident Response Guidelines

• Pre-blast and Post-blast Responses:

  • Initial reports will dictate urgent responses.

  • Secondary devices are a constant threat during incidents.

Safety Protocols

• Precautions:

  • Minimize time in affected areas, maximize distance from hazards.

  • Use shielding materials for safety when necessary.

Evacuation Protocols

• Types of evacuation: total, partial, or none based on the assessment by authorities.

Safety Considerations

• Assess size and condition of devices, proximity to exposure, and the presence of secondary devices.

  • Evaluate capabilities and immediacy of technical assistance.

Conclusion

• Key Takeaways:

  • Differentiate explosive types and their indications.

  • Recognize explosive manufacturing indicators and potential hazards.

  • Knowledge of appropriate responses during explosive incidents.