RDX can be obtained from C-4 explosive with the use of gasoline. It can be used as a booster explosive for detonators (Section VI, No. 13) or as a high explcsive charge.
MATERIAL REQUIRED:
- Gasoline C-4 explosive
- 2 pint glass jars, wide mouth
- Paper towels
- Stirring rod (glass or wc-od)
- Water
- Ceramic or glass dish
- Pan
- Optional (RDX can be air dried instead)
- Heat Source
- Teaspoon
- Cup
- Tape
PROCEDURE:
1. Place 1-1/2 teaspoons (15 grams) of C-4 explosive in one of the pint jars. Add 1 cup (240 milliliters) of gasoline.
NOTE: These quantities can be in¬creased to obtain more RDX. For example, use 2 gallons of gasoline per 1 cup of C-4.
2. Knead and stir the C-4 with the rod until the C-4 has broken down into small particles. Allow mixture to stand for 1/2 hour.
3. Stir the mixture again until a fine white powder remains on the bottom of the jar.
4. Filter the mixture through a paper towel into the other glass jar. Wash the particles collected on the paper towel with 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) of gasoline. Discard the waste liquid.
5. Place the RDX particles in a glass or ceramic dish. Set the dish in a pan of hot water, not boiling, and dry for a period of 1 hour.
NOTE: The RDX particles may be air dried for a period of 2 to 3 hours.