Forensic Science International
Volume 159, Issue 2 , Pages 127-131, 2 June 2006

Composition profile of low explosives from cases in India

  • D.K. Kuila

      Affiliations

    • Central Forensic Science Laboratory, 30, Gorachand Road, Kolkata 700014, West Bengal, India
    • Corresponding Author InformationCorresponding author. Tel.: +91 33 2284 0378; fax: +91 33 2284 9442.
    • ,
  • A. Chakrabortty

      Affiliations

    • Central Forensic Science Laboratory, 30, Gorachand Road, Kolkata 700014, West Bengal, India
    • ,
  • S.P. Sharma

      Affiliations

    • Central Forensic Science Laboratory, 30, Gorachand Road, Kolkata 700014, West Bengal, India
    • ,
  • S.C. Lahiri

      Affiliations

    • Kalyani Government Engineering College and Department of Chemistry, Kalyani University, Kalyani 741235, India

Received 18 October 2004; received in revised form 15 June 2005; accepted 24 June 2005. published online 03 September 2005.

Abstract 

About 1000 samples of explosives and post-blast residues were analysed using routine analytical procedures. The results were confirmed by ion chromatography and scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (SEM-EDXA) (for a number of samples) for better comprehension of the elements present. Common, easily available compounds like potassium nitrate (KNO3), potassium chlorate (KClO3), arsenic sulphide (As2S3), sulphur (S), aluminium (Al), etc. were used in varying combinations for the manufacture of improvised low explosives. Composition profiles of the explosives and their origin may be useful in tracing the criminals. Restrictions and proper monitoring of these substances are suggested to reduce explosions causing damage of public and private properties and loss of lives.

Keywords: Explosives, Composition profile, Ion chromatography, Pyrotechnic materials, SEM-EDXA

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PII: S0379-0738(05)00405-6

doi:10.1016/j.forsciint.2005.06.012

Forensic Science International
Volume 159, Issue 2 , Pages 127-131, 2 June 2006

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