TheJournal.ie uses cookies. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Click here to find out more »
Dublin: 5 °C Friday 24 May, 2013

Bomb squad deal with unstable chemical at laboratory

A controlled explosion was carried out near the facility in Dungarvan, Co Waterford.

File photo
File photo
Image: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

AN ARMY BOMB disposal team was called out to deal with an unstable chemical at a science facility in Dungarvan, Co Waterford this afternoon.

The unit were alerted after a quantity of picric acid was discovered during an audit at Lancaster Laboratories in the town. Arriving on scene at 3.45pm, they were able to remove the chemical to nearby waste ground.

Specialists then carried out a controlled explosion to make the chemical safe. The scene was declared safe at 4.20pm.

Picric acid is a chemical reagent which is routinely used in laboratories. However, it can crystallise and become unstable and sensitive to shock or friction over time.

Read next:

Comments (6 Comments)

  • Again ……

    Reply
  • DubDon 19/10/11 #

    Is there any use for this picric acid? Could we flog it abroad andante a few quid because it appears to the only other item we have in abundance along with huge bank debt which we’ll never shift… I know, dump it in AIB BOI and all the other bank headquarters… And let the EOD blow it up there….

    Seriously though great bunch of people in bomb disposal team over worked under praised…

    Reply
  • Dee Mac 19/10/11 #

    That’s the second time in around a month!!!

    Reply
  • Who is paying for all these? Mismanagement of chemical storage needs to become a chargeable offence. Too many companies dodging the expensive chemical disposal contractors by leaving stuff long enough that the army have to sort it out?!

    Reply
    • Picric acid is actually pretty easy to dispose of. It becomes dangerous when left idle for a few years and crystals start to form. A bit of friction or impact can make it explode at this stage. To get it back stable, all that needs to be done is to leave in a basin of water for about a week, then add a little bit of water. It can then be disposed through the regular protocols for disposing chemicals at this stage. Absolutely no need to call the army out.

      We found some in our lab that had been idle for years. No army call out necessary for us!

      Reply

Add New Comment