NCJ Number
128104
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1991) Pages: 261-263
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
An improvised incendiary device, recovered before its assembly and concealment in a cigarette pack, was composed of concentrated sulfuric acid, sucrose, potassium chlorate, and methenamine.
Abstract
Methenamine, identified from its infrared spectrum, is most commonly used as a urinary antibacterial, but its other applications include metal detection and fuel tablets for camping stoves. In this case, the methenamine was in the form of a pure, white, crystalline powder that burned with a smokeless flame; its purpose was probably to support combustion and keep the fire burning longer. Another possible use for the chemical is in the preparation of RDX, the high explosive also known as cyclonite. 1 figure and 6 references (Author abstract modified)