Abstract: A blast resistant container includes a rigid outer cylinder, a rigid inner cylinder and at least one pumice brick. The rigid inner cylinder has a longitudinal axis. The at least one pumice brick is within the interior of the rigid inner cylinder.

Abstract: A method for the colorimetric detection of two compounds in a bulk sample comprises the steps of forming an aqueous solution of the bulk sample, inserting a single dip strip having a pair of test regions each having separate colorimetric indicator reagents for a different one of the two compounds to be tested for into the solution and then removing the dip strip from the solution, and observing the test regions for color changes denoting the presence of the two compounds. The methodology is especially adapted for the colorimetric detection of nitrates and chlorates, two components commonly associated with explosives and particularly homemade explosives.

Abstract: A method for the colorimetric detection of two compounds in a bulk sample comprises the steps of forming an aqueous solution of the bulk sample, inserting a single dip strip having a pair of test regions each having separate colorimetric indicator reagents for a different one of the two compounds to be tested for into the solution and then removing the dip strip from the solution, and observing the test regions for color changes denoting the presence of the two compounds. The methodology is especially adapted for the colorimetric detection of nitrates and chlorates, two components commonly associated with explosives and particularly homemade explosives.

Abstract: A portable containment chamber for disposing of explosive threat devices comprises a cylindrical chamber body with a hinged interiorly convex outward-opening access door. The door closes against a tapered seat whereby explosion pressure enhances a gas-tight seal. In closed position the door is locked by interconnected expandable locking shoes which engage an annular locking channel in the mouth of the chamber with a simultaneous crank-and-piston linkage. The door is actuated by a pneumatic mechanism which first traverses laterally it into alignment with the chamber, then traverses it axially into sealing engagement with the chamber mouth, and then moves the expandable locking shoes into locked position. A first interlock prevents axial door movement when in standby position, and a second interlock inhibits detonation of a donor explosive charge within the chamber if the door locking shoes are not fully locked.

Abstract: A portable containment chamber for safely disposing of suspected explosive threat devices comprises a cylindrical chamber body and hinged outward-opening access door. The door seals against a tapered seat and extends convexly into the interior of the chamber, whereby blast pressure tends to expand the door into enhanced gas-tight sealing engagement. The mouth of the chamber has an annular locking channel with which the door is locked in closed position by an expandable interconnected locking shoes driven by a crank-and-piston linkage such that all shoes are simultaneously locked and unlocked by movement of a common crank. A two-stage door operating mechanism first moves the unlocked door axially out of sealed position, and then rotates it to one side to provide access to the interior of the chamber. For closing, the sequence of movements is reversed.

Abstract: A blast-attenuating container for public spaces comprising an outer metallic shell enclosing a plurality of belted automobile tires, preferably used, in a stacked array, thereby defining a cylindrical central space for holding a removable waste receptacle. Within each tire is a water-filled energy-absorbing bladder. The stacked tires may be further enclosed by a fragmentation-absorbing reinforcing band. A cover over the shell has a hinged door for receiving and directing waste into the removable waste receptacle. The cover is removable for access to the waste receptacle. The can and waste receptacle may be provided with a load cell and programmed microprocessor for detecting the insertion of a possible threat item and an RF transmitter for sending an alert to a central security station.

Abstract: A wheeled dolly or support for a ladder is made in two pieces, including a base plate that permanently affixes to an outside surface of a rail of a ladder, and a frame that is removably mounted on the base plate. The frame carries wheels that will support the ladder when the ladder is placed on edge and one end of the ladder is lifted. The frame normally is near a base end of the ladder. The frame that holds the wheels can be removed when desired for storage, or for use in a location where the wheels may restrict clearance around the ladder.