Public Intelligence

(U//FOUO) Terrorists could use the explosive Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP), also referred to as acetone peroxide, in an attack against the United States. In December 2001, British shoe-bomber Richard Reid tried to detonate an explosive device with TATP as the initiator while aboard a flight from Paris to Miami. TATP can be made from hydrogen peroxide, acetone, and sulfuric acid. These ingredients are commonly available from drug stores, hardware stores, and car batteries. TATP is extremely sensitive to impact, friction, static/sparks, and heat, and may react violently to drug field testing.

(U//FOUO) Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP) is a powerful, highly unstable homemade explosive that terrorist and extremist groups have used in bomb-making. Similarities in appearance and methods of production can cause first responders to mistake TATP for methamphetamine, placing anyone in the area in a potentially hazardous situation. TATP may explode if not handled carefully.