Method and apparatus for mine and unexploded ordnance neutralization

A method for neutralizing a mine or unexploded ordnance having a casing comprising explosive material, said method comprising the steps of

• (a) reacting a reactive compound that undergoes a self propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) reaction to form high temperature reaction products in quantity and at a rate sufficient to decompose the content of the casing, wherein the reaction products are mostly liquid;
• (b) limiting the spread of the liquid high temperature reaction products;
• (c) supplying an oxygen-rich gas stream to the casing or explosive to enhance decomposition of the casing or burning or decomposition of the explosive;
• and
• (d) decomposing the content of the casing by heating the casing with the high temperature reaction products for a time and at a rate sufficient to increase the pressure in the casing to cause the casing to fracture and, before the explosive detonates, (i) scatter the explosive or (ii) bum or decompose the explosive for a time sufficient to destroy the explosive;
• wherein the reactive compound is an essentially stoichiometric combination of sulfur and a metal selected from the group consisting of zirconium, chromium, indium, titanium, manganese, iron, and blends thereof;
• and wherein the reactive compound consists essentially of particles having particle size less than about 100 microns.