Explosives Inspectorate | Alert | No.112 V | 13 June 2023
During a routine inspection by the Explosives Inspectorate the formation of Tetra-Amine Copper Nitrate (TACN) was identified on a brass padlock and copper fittings located on an explosive Mobile Processing Unit (MPU).
Lack of knowledge and awareness of the potential for the formation of TACN on copper fittings exposed to ammonium nitrate.
TACN is an impact sensitive explosive compound formed when reactive metals such as zinc, copper or its alloys (brass) are exposed to an aqueous solution of ammonium nitrate.
The impact required to initiate TACN is reported to be equivalent to dropping a 2 kg weight from a height of approximately 20 cm.
Persons working on equipment contaminated with TACN can be exposed to the potential for a small, localised explosion caused by impact or heat to the TACN affected areas.
Operators who store, transport, use and manufacture ammonium nitrate should:
Investigations are ongoing and further information may be published as it becomes available. The information in this publication is what is known at the time of writing.
We issue Safety Notices to draw attention to the occurrence of a serious incident, raise awareness of risks, and prompt assessment of your existing controls.
Contact: Paul White, Senior Inspector of Explosives , +61 7 3199 8023 explosives@rshq.qld.gov.au
Issued by Resources Safety & Health Queensland
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All information on this page (Formation of Tetra-Amine Copper Nitrate (TACN) on copper fittings located on Mobile Processing Unit (MPU) - https://www.rshq.qld.gov.au/safety-notices/explosives/formation-of-tetra-amine-copper-nitrate-tacn-on-copper-fittings-located-on-mobile-processing-unit-mpu) is correct as of time of printing (May 9, 2024 12:23 pm).