Ammonal explosive

Ammonal was an explosive mixture of Ammonium Nitrate, TNT and powdered Aluminium. It was generally used for mining as it expanded more slowly on detonation than other explosives, creating a large lifting effect. Though not widely issued, we know several Auxiliary Units Patrols received ammonal, as did at least one Scout Section. A notebook kept by Kent Group Leader Bill Gardner records the explosives issued to his Patrols. Both Savoy and Gherkin had 21lbs of Ammonal along with other explosives.

The unusual quantity confirms the exact packaging in use. The 21lb Ammonal tin contained 84 individual 4oz charges, each measuring 5” x 1 3/8”. They were contained in rubberised fabric tubes as Ammonal, a greyish powder, is very hygroscopic, easily absorbing any water including from the air. Sealed inside a metal tin, the risks of this were much reduced. The tins were 9” x 9” x 9.5” tall, with a round lid. They were painted black with yellow stencilled lettering. The example shown was discovered in Iceland, taken there by British troops in 1940. These tins are very rare and we are grateful for permission to reproduce the images. Photos of the 4oz charges are also had to find. Shown above are stills from a film demonstrating how to build a flame fougasse, with the soldier holding three 4oz charges. The rubberised fabric appears to be black or another very dark colour.

Ammonal was also issued in 25lb and 50lb tins. The 25lb tin was reportedly of the same dimensions as the 21lb tin. The 50lb tin was larger, 11 7/8” x 10 1/4” x 12 1/4”. These are mentioned in documents kept by Auxiliers, but no evidence has been found that Ammonal was issued in this form to Auxiliary Units.