Delhi Red Fort Blast: What Is Ammonium Nitrate and How Is It Different from Military-Grade Explosives Like RDX and TNT?

New Delhi: The powerful blast near Delhi’s Red Fort on Monday, which claimed at least 12 lives, was reportedly triggered by ammonium nitrate—a chemical believed to have been carried by the terror suspects

in the i20 car.Ever since the attack, ammonium nitrate has come under scrutiny, as preliminary investigations suggest the suspects detonated the chemical in panic near a traffic signal.This is the same chemical recovered from radicalised doctors arrested during the crackdown on multi-state terror module after first leads got from Jammu and Kashmir.Following Monday’s explosion in Delhi, investigating agencies have been assessing the nature of the blast, which appears to differ from typical terror attacks involving military-grade explosives. So let’s examine how ammonium nitrate fuel differs from conventional IEDs using RDX.

• Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil (ANFO) differs in both composition and explosive characteristics from regular IEDs.
• While considered a lower-grade chemical, ANFO is equally dangerous and deadly when compared to military explosives like RDX.
• ANFO is prepared by mixing ammonium nitrate—a common fertilizer—with fuel oil. It’s widely used in mining and construction due to its affordability and ease of handling.
• Though regulated in India, the chemical remains easily accessible in several countries.
• In contrast, military-grade explosives such as RDX, PETN, or TNT require specialised expertise to handle and are far more tightly regulated. Their access is restricted due to their high destructive potential and sensitivity.