What method can be used to destroy AN/FO explosives?

What method can be used to destroy AN/FO explosives?

• A. Burning them in an open flame
• B. Emptying into a large body of stagnant water
• C. Burial in concrete
• D. Mixing with sand

Answer: (B)

The method of emptying AN/FO explosives (Ammonium Nitrate/Fuel Oil) into a large body of stagnant water is deemed effective because it allows the explosives to be submerged and diluted in water, thereby significantly reducing the risk of detonation. Water helps to neutralize the explosive components, preventing them from reacting violently. Stagnant water is particularly beneficial because it is less likely to cause any accidental triggering through agitation or waves, effectively rendering the explosives inert. Other methods are generally not recommended or can pose serious risks. Depending on the conditions and the materials involved, burning explosives in an open flame can lead to unintended and dangerous detonations. Burial in concrete could potentially entrap explosive materials, allowing for future disturbances or environmental hazards. Mixing AN/FO with sand does not adequately neutralize the explosive properties and can still maintain a risk of detonation, particularly if the mixture is disturbed. Each of these alternatives lacks the safety and effectiveness provided by submerging the explosives in water.

The method of emptying AN/FO explosives (Ammonium Nitrate/Fuel Oil) into a large body of stagnant water is deemed effective because it allows the explosives to be submerged and diluted in water, thereby significantly reducing the risk of detonation. Water helps to neutralize the explosive components, preventing them from reacting violently. Stagnant water is particularly beneficial because it is less likely to cause any accidental triggering through agitation or waves, effectively rendering the explosives inert.

Other methods are generally not recommended or can pose serious risks. Depending on the conditions and the materials involved, burning explosives in an open flame can lead to unintended and dangerous detonations. Burial in concrete could potentially entrap explosive materials, allowing for future disturbances or environmental hazards. Mixing AN/FO with sand does not adequately neutralize the explosive properties and can still maintain a risk of detonation, particularly if the mixture is disturbed. Each of these alternatives lacks the safety and effectiveness provided by submerging the explosives in water.