Sciencemadness Discussion Board

PETN

ashokagrwaal - 26-9-2013 at 07:58

Hi, I am a lawyer, practicing in India. I am engaged in arguing an appeal before the Delhi High Court. The case involves alleged seizure of PETN. My questions pertain to this case. I have a deadline of Saturday, 28th September 2013 as the appeal comes up for hearing on Monday, 30 September. My questions are as follows:

1. What is the natural colour of PETN?

2. Can PETN turn brown under any conditions? If yes, under what conditions?

3. If PETN can be (or become) brown, can it turn back to its natural colour/ off white/ yellow? If yes, under what conditions?

4. Can one say Ammonium Nitrate and Suphuric Acid are ingredients used to synthesize PETN?

5. If the answer to the previous question is yes, will residues of Ammonium Nitrate and Suphuric Acid be found in a batch of PETN (granules or sheet)?

6. If PETN is found in combination with Ammonium Nitrate and "Acid", can they be called adulterants or contaminants?

7. Does PETN react with Ammonium Nitrate and Suphuric Acid even after it has been synthesized?

8. Can PETN turn brown if combined with Ammonium Nitrate and Suphuric Acid?

9. Can PETN that has turned brown (assuming it has) turn back to off white/ yellowish?

10. Can PETN that has turned brown ..... etc, turn back to off white .... even if it continues to be mixed/ contaminated with Ammonium Nitrate and Suphuric Acid?

11. Is there any explosive that is naturally brown/ dark brown in colour?

I extend my deep appreciation and thanks to this community, in advance, for any help that they may extend to me.

Ashok Agrwaal

neptunium - 26-9-2013 at 08:23

I thought PETN was a whit crystal red fuming nitric acid is used to prepare it but sulfuric acid and ammonium nitrate could I guess be used to generate nitric acid in theory...if not properly washed yes residue of sulfuric acid could remain all over the glassware and final product...
as for the colors I honestly don't know ...hope this help the case

[topic closed]

bfesser - 26-9-2013 at 09:23

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