Tannerite

[kdp35]

Simple, If I mix Tannerite together and Put the Lid back on it.. Hpw Long will it Hold Up. I may Shoot it 3 months after Its Mixed Ip will it still blow up? Just yes or no, How Long is the Shelf Life with it Mixed. ????

 

[gspn]

I don't know if there is a max shelf life...but we have shot stuff like you describe, weeks and months after the initial mix and it's been fine.

We don't intend to premix anything, but sometimes you just have a few containers left over that you didn't shoot that day. We put it on the shelf and shoot it later.

 

[taliv]

tannerite is a binary, meaning the gov doesn't consider it an explosive (and thus apply a rather strict set of regulations) until you mix it.

once mixed, the laws will vary by state, but odds are strong that you cannot legally store it or transport it without having an explosives license and following proper storage procedures including having proper storage facilities

thus, the shelf life is a moot point.

 

[MtnCreek]

I believe the law regarding transport is federal, but I could be mistaken.

AN does not do well when air can get to it. It's N will escape into the air and the rest turns to mush. That's been my exp w/ AN fertilizers anyway.

 

[Frank Ettin]

tannerite is a binary, meaning the gov doesn't consider it an explosive (and thus apply a rather strict set of regulations) until you mix it...

Yes. So let's take a somewhat closer look at the legal issues.

Let's see what the ATF has said about binary explosives (emphasis added):

....ATF does not regulate the sale and distribution of these component chemicals, even when sold together in binary "kits." However, when the binary components are combined, the resulting mixture is an explosive material subject to the regulatory requirements found in 27 CFR, Part 555....

See also the short article entitled "Binary Explosives" on page 3 of the January, 2014, edition of the ATF EXPLOSIVES Industry Newsletter (emphasis added):

...Persons manufacturing explosives for their own personal, non-business use only (e.g., personal target practice) are not required to have a Federal explosives license or permit, however a Federal explosives license or permit is required to receive or transport mixed binary explosives, e.g., transporting mixed exploding targets to a shooting range. Further, prohibited persons may not possess mixed binary explosives, such as mixed exploding targets or theatrical flash powder. ...

Since ATF considers mixed tannerite to be a explosive, it's probably also an explosive for the purposes of state law. So the manufacture, possession, storage, and transportation of mixed tannerite would be subject to state law, fire codes and local zoning ordinances. There could also be clauses in leases of residential or commercial property relating to the possession and storage of explosives on the premises.

 

[wally]

The sensitivity starts to decrease after you mix it as the aluminum powder slowly reacts with air and the AN it is touching.

I've never shot any more than about 30 minutes after mixing, usually only after 5-10 and have never had a dud. Mixing them up in the morning for a evening "grand finale" may encounter some duds, depending on the velocity of the bullets you shoot it with.

Temperature and humidity plays a large role, so I don't think you can really set a "use before" date.

Once its mixed you can easily run afoul of explosives laws and regulations, so best advice is mix it, then shoot it!