Explosive Precursors

Many chemical substances have a variety of uses. Some substances can be used for completely legitimate purposes, like everyday crafting. However, certain chemicals also have the potential for misuse, particularly in the creation of explosive devices. Such substances are called explosive precursors; they are highly regulated globally and are prohibited on TuttiReal.

TuttiReal prohibits the following chemical substances as explosive precursors. This is not an exhaustive list and is subject to change at any time: 

• Acetone – C₃H₆O
• Aluminum powder 
• Ammonium nitrate – NH₄NO₃
• Calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) 
• Calcium nitrate – Ca(NO₃)₂ 
• Hexamine (methenamine) – (CH₂)₆N₄
• Hydrogen peroxide – H₂O₂
• Magnesium powdered
• Magnesium nitrate hexahydrate – Mg(NO₃)₂
• Nitric acid (aqua fortis) – HNO₃
• Nitromethane (nitro) – CH₃NO₂
• Potassium chlorate – KClO₃
• Potassium nitrate (saltpeter) – KNO₃
• Potassium perchlorate – KClO₄
• Sodium chlorate – NaClO₃
• Sodium nitrate – NaNO₃
• Sodium perchlorate – NaClO₄
• Sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol) – H₂SO₄

Explosive precursor substances may qualify if they are a component ingredient in an otherwise qualifying product. TuttiReal reserves the right to evaluate such listings on an individual, case-by-case basis. TuttiReal cannot advise on how to comply with the law, including how specific rules apply to precursors on this list when they’re a component of a product. It is up to you to ensure that you comply with all local laws and regulations for the markets you serve. Though not exhaustive, the following resources are great if you sell chemical substances that may be subject to regulatory requirements:

US Resources

Bomb-Making Materials Awareness Program
Ammonium Nitrate Security Program

EU Resources

EU Regulation on the Marketing and Use of Explosive Precursors 

UK Resources

GOV.UK Guidance on Supplying Explosive Precursors

Australia Resources

National Code of Practice for Chemicals of Security Concern

Canada Resources

Government of Canada – Explosives Act

Last updated on May 30, 2025