HLSS230 - Chemistry of Explosives

Course Objectives:

CO-1 Explain the history & development of explosive use

CO-2 Recognize the importance of chemical composition data related to explosive materials

CO-3. Define and differentiate between combustion, deflagration & detonation related to explosive chemicals

CO-4 Discuss thermal decomposition, ignition, & initiation of explosive chemicals

CO-5 Differentiate between the various uses of explosive chemicals in relation to inherent hazards

CO-6 Explain the important role of safer nitroglycerin development

CO-7 Determine the proper course of action given the response atmosphere and explosive material/s encountered.

CO-8 Identify environmental concerns, and, the local, state, and federal regulations regarding the handling, use and transportation of explosive chemical materials.

CO-9 Discuss the importance of oxidation in explosive molecules

CO-10 Delineate the hazards between explosive chemicals in their normal ‘states’ and uses versus abnormal/unbalanced states and incorrect or criminal uses.

CO-11 Describe and define activation energy and the ‘heats of formation

CO-12 Identify the protective equipment associated with handling explosive chemicals

Co-13 Explain the need for DOT regulations regarding the handling. Transportation and use of explosive chemicals

Grades for this course will be based upon four grading instruments. There are weekly discussion questions that are provided in the Forum Section. The student – when directed by the instructor -- will respond to the posting of other students. The mid-term and final exams will be a composite of multiple choice questions and short essays.

The grade scale and due dates for each of the evaluation are provided below:

1. Akhaven, J. The Chemistry of Explosives (2nd ed.). RSC. NOTE: You have an electronic version of this text book provided in the Resources section of the LMS; also an electronic version of the Tenny Davis book previously used as a text book for this course.
2. Guest Website Assigned Readings include:

DoD Directive 5160.62. Single Manager Responsibility for Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology and Training (EOD T&T) at: http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/

Articles and topics available from The Domestic Preparedness Office from sources such as Ask.com http://www.answers.com/topic/domestic-preparedness-office-ndpo-united-states-national

Various search engines: Google, Bing or Ask (.com)

1. Weekly Notes in the Course Materials Section.