Triacetone triperoxide - Definition

Triacetone triperoxide (TATP) is an explosive popular with terrorist groups. Upon examination, it was discovered that shoe-bomber Richard Reid’s black basketball shoes were packed with TATP.

TATP must be handled with extreme care. An estimated 40 Palestinians have been killed manufacturing TATP.

Conventionnal explosives (such as TNT) detonates with a combustion reaction between the fuel component and the oxidizing component mixed in the compound. The cause of TATP explosive properties is different: TATP molecules disintegrate releasing oxygen and ozone gases and just enough energy to propagate the reation.

External link

• ATF - List of Explosive Materials (http://www.atf.treas.gov/pub/fire-explo_pub/listofexp.htm)