Improvised Explosive Devices

Abstract

• Militant Sunni Islamist groups are responsible for the overwhelming majority of civilian casualties inflicted in IED attacks. This is largely attributable to their use of large IEDs and indiscriminate tactics. The chapter begins by providing an overview of the various types of IEDs and the contexts in which they are used. It then examines the available information on the impact of IEDs on civilians and assesses the types of weapons and tactics that are responsible for the majority of casualties. It continues by looking at efforts to mitigate the threat of IEDs with a particular focus on counter-proliferation, and concludes with reflections on the current challenges facing efforts to reduce IED proliferation. A TYPOLOGY OF IEDS By definition, all IEDs contain a main charge of explosives. Much like military and commercial explosive specialists, improvised-bomb makers typically use a relatively inert explosive that can be handled safely for their main charge. These are initiated by a small charge of a more sensitive primary explosive that detonates readily. The most common type of detonator (also known as blasting cap) consists of a small metal tube filled with a primary explosive, such as mercury fulminate, which is initiated by an electrical charge. IEDs that use such detonators require one or more batteries to supply the necessary power. The activation mechanisms (switches or triggers) on these IEDs consequently involve various ways of completing an electrical circuit. The complexity of IEDs increases with size. A larger device requires multiple detonators or detonating cord to ensure the whole of the main charge-which is generally divided into multiple sub-charges-detonates simultaneously. Also known as det/primer cord, detonating cord consists of a flexible, plastic tube that wraps around a core of high explosive and can be cut to length as required. High-explosive booster charges are needed in IEDs whose main charges cannot be initiated by detonators (such charges are known as 'cap-insensitive'). Bomb makers often add fragmentation (commonly referred to as shrapnel) such as ball bearings, nails, and bolts to their devices to increase lethality. The typology presented here classifies IEDs according to their switch or activation system. 2 Time-delayed Time bombs remain a staple IED due to their simplicity. These can be as crude as a burning fuse that gives the bomber time to reach safety. While this might seem old-fashioned, the system is still used. For example, Norwegian right-wing extremist Anders Breivik used a cannon (or visco) fuse to initiate a vehicle bomb containing 950 kg of explosives in Oslo on 22 July 2011. Used in commercial fireworks displays, cannon fuses consist of a core of black powder wrapped in layers of string and nitrocellulose, a combination that burns at around 1 cm per second. They are considered ineffective for many types of IED as they burn with a visible flame and emit smoke. Nevertheless, they are often used in improvised hand grenades and pipe bombs, which are employed in signifi...

A Simulation Algorithm Capable Of Modelling Spatial Impact Points From The Neutralization Of An Improvised Explosive Device

“…IEDs consist of several basic components, including an explosive charge and a method of detonation [19]. Explosives within an IED can vary from different types of dynamite, homemade explosives, high-grade explosives, and low-grade explosives.…”

“…IEDs range in form, size and power and explosive components of an IED can be created using commonly available materials such as fertilizer and common chemicals [24]. IEDs can be created from a variety of explosive components that are a mixture of chemicals, or formed from conventional munitions like mortar and artillery rounds [4], [6], [19].…”

“…IEDs have a long history, and the availability of surplus preprocessed materials have enabled the development and diversity of IEDs [6], [19]. Chemicals for explosives, and materials and products that can be modified to function as casings, shrapnel, triggering mechanisms and power sources have become readily available on a large scale.…”

A Simulation Algorithm Capable Of Modelling Spatial Impact Points From The Neutralization Of An Improvised Explosive Device

“…IEDs consist of several basic components, including an explosive charge and a method of detonation [19]. Explosives within an IED can vary from different types of dynamite, homemade explosives, high-grade explosives, and low-grade explosives.…”

“…IEDs range in form, size and power and explosive components of an IED can be created using commonly available materials such as fertilizer and common chemicals [24]. IEDs can be created from a variety of explosive components that are a mixture of chemicals, or formed from conventional munitions like mortar and artillery rounds [4], [6], [19].…”