Improvised Munitions Handbook (Improvised Explosive Devices or ...

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Dilute 2-1/4 teaspoons of nitric acid with 1-1/2
teaspoons of water in a glass container by adding
the acid to the water.
Dissolve a silver coin (a silver dime) in the diluted nitric acid. The solution will turn to a green
color.
Note: It may be necessary to warm the container to completely dissolve the silver coin.
Caution: Acid will burn skin and destroy clothing. If any is spilled, wash it away with a
large quantity of water. Do not inhale fumes.
Pour solution into a long narrow
(olive) jar and place it in a bottle of
hot water. Crystals will form in the
solution; heat until crystals dissolve.
While still heating and after crystals have dissolved, place 10 teaspoons of calcium carbide in
another glass bottle and add 1 teaspoon of water. After the reaction has started add another
teaspoon of water. Then set up as shown.