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.