RDX (Research Department Explosive)
Definition
Cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (C3H6N6O6). A military-grade secondary high explosive with a detonation velocity of approximately 8,750 m/s. The primary explosive in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts. Access is restricted to military and licensed commercial users; its presence in a post-blast scene indicates an organised supply chain.
- Chemical formula
- C3H6N6O6
- Class
- Secondary high explosive
- Detonation velocity
- Approx. 8,750 m/s
- Access
- Restricted, military and licensed commercial
Common questions
Why does RDX need a detonator rather than igniting from a flame or spark?+
As a secondary explosive it is comparatively insensitive to heat, friction, and impact, so it requires the shock wave from a primary explosive detonator to initiate rather than simple ignition, which makes it safer to handle and transport than primary explosives.
What does finding RDX residue at a post-blast scene tell investigators about the source?+
Because civilian access is tightly controlled, its presence points investigators toward military, state, or diverted-supply origins for the material rather than improvised or commercially sourced explosives, and often becomes a lead for tracing the supply chain.
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