Expedient destruction of organic peroxides including triacetone triperoxide (TATP) in emergency situations

Abstract

The destruction of organic peroxides particularly triacetone triperoxide (TATP) in emergency situations poses many challenges to emergency responders because of their inherent hazards and sensitivity to detonation. Incidents involving TATP have become more common in recent years as it has found widespread use as an explosive material in terrorism related incidents. A new field portable approach using high temperature combustion has been developed and tested to destroy organic peroxides especially TATP. This approach provides a viable alternative to destruction of organic peroxides using explosives, or chemical neutralisation. The apparatus is made of commonly available parts, and does not require specialist expertise to safely operate. However, the handling of sensitive organic peroxides like TATP requires caution. Guidance is also offered about approaches to consider including risk control measures to effectively and safely mitigate risks associated with destroying sensitive organic peroxides in emergency settings.