Forensic Probe Confirms Use of Ammonium Nitrate–TATP Mix in Red Fort Blast

Forensic analysis of the November 10 blast outside the Red Fort has confirmed the use of a mixture of ammonium nitrate and triacetone triperoxide (TATP). Both chemicals are highly potent and fall under strict regulatory control due to their explosive potential.

Scale of Explosion

• Initial reports from the Forensic Science Laboratory indicate:
  • 30–40 kg of ammonium nitrate was packed in the car.
  • Such a quantity could easily trigger the massive explosion observed at the site.

Possible Investigative Link

• Investigators are exploring a connection between:
  • The Delhi blast, and
  • The Faridabad terror module, from which 358 kg of ammonium nitrate and other bomb-making materials were recovered.
• The findings may suggest a broader organised network engaged in illegal procurement of explosives.

Regulation and Misuse of Ammonium Nitrate

• Ammonium nitrate:
  • Is widely used as agricultural fertiliser and in some industrial processes.
  • Is legally sold only through registered vendors with strict monitoring.
  • Remains a common component in improvised explosive devices (IEDs) used by terror groups in India.
• Historical misuse:
  • Featured in nearly all major blasts before 2012, including 1996 and 1997 serial blasts in Delhi.
• Regulatory framework:
  • Possession up to 30 metric tonnes requires district magistrate approval.
  • Higher quantities need clearance from PESO (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation).
  • All licensed transactions are monitored under the System for Explosive Tracking and Tracing (SETT).
• Despite regulations, illegal sales and purchases still occur on a large scale.

Scientific Basis of Explosive Potential

• Characteristics:
  • Effective explosives typically contain oxygen-rich compounds.
  • Ammonium nitrate has three oxygen atoms.
  • TNT contains nine oxygen atoms, and RDX is also oxygen-rich.
  • TATP, created from multiple chemical components, contains oxygen and is highly unstable and detonable.
• The accused are believed to have:
  • Created an IED,
  • Using a detonator,
  • By mixing ammonium nitrate with TATP, enabling a powerful blast.

Source: IE