Improvised Munitions Handbook (Improvised Explosive Devices or ...

11.
12.
13.
14.
In a separate container, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon (1.8 grams) of potassium or sodium nitrite in 1/3
cup (80 milliliters) of water.
Add this solution in one portion, while stirring, to the orange-solution. Allow the mixture to
stand for 10 minutes. The mixture will turn light brown.
Caution: At this point the mixture is a primary explosive. Keep away from flame.
Filter the mixture through a paper towel.
Wash the particles left on the paper with 4
teaspoons (20 milliliters) of water.
Allow the particles to dry (approximately 16 hours).
Caution: Explosive is shock and flame sensitive. Store explosive in a capped container.
Note: The drying time can be reduced to 2 hours if a hot (not boiling) water bath is used. See section
1.16.
1.20 Preparation of Lead Picrate
Lead picrate is used as a primary explosive in the fabrication of detonators (section 6.13). It is to be
used with a booster explosive such as picric acid (section 1.21) or RDX (section 1.15).
Materials Required Source
Litharge (lead monoxide) Section 1.18 or plumbing supplies
Picric Acid Section 1.21
Wood alcohol (methanol) Paint removers; some antifreezes
Wooden or plastic rod
Dish or saucer (china or glass)
Teaspoon
Improvised Scale Section 7.8
Containers
Flat pan
Heat source (optional)
Water (optional)
Procedure