Urea nitrate

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Urea nitrate is a fertilizer-based high explosive that has been used in improvised explosive devices in Israel and Iraq.[1] It has a destructive power similar to better-known ammonium nitrate explosives, with a velocity of detonation between 11,155 and 15,420 fps.[2]

Production is by nitration of urea using nitric acid. This is an exothermic reaction, so steps must be taken to control the temperature. Presence of sulfuric acid during the nitration catalizes the reaction, although this is not necessary. [2]

Urea nitrate explosions may be initiated using a blasting cap. [2]

[edit] References

  1. ^ Aaron Rowe. Chem Lab: Spray-On Test for Improvised Explosives. Wired.
  2. ^ a b c Explosives - ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate - Fuel Oil). GlobalSecurity.org.
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