Conversion

of APAAN
into BMK

(-phenylacetoacetonitrile)

by
The Netherlands Police Agency
National Dismantling Facility (LFO)

Co-operation Group to Combat Drug Abuse and Illicit trafficking in Drugs

P-PG / Precursors
(2013)3

(benzylmethylketone)

Conversion of
APAAN (
-phenylacetoacetonitrile) into
BMK (benzylmethylketone)
Netherlands Police Agency
National Dismantling Facility (LFO)

CONFIDENTIAL
For internal use only
This publication has been printed in the English
version by
the Council of Europe Pompidou Group with the
kind permission of the Netherlands Police Agency



Law enforcement

The main objective of the Pompidou Groups law enforcement activities is to reduce
drug supply available on the markets by addressing drug trafficking as a criminal
activity and as a form of organised crime affecting our security on an individual and
social level, in line with the Pompidou Groups multi-disciplinary approach.

Law enforcement activities

These activities follow up on the work of the Criminal Justice platform (2007-2010)
on:

quasi-coerced treatment of drug-dependent offenders, including drug treatment

courts, specialised magistrates as well as diversion programmes;
recidivism
drug addiction in prison
drug precursors diversion

In line with the Pompidou Groups multi-disciplinary approach, the activities promote
the efficiency of law enforcement services in the fight against drug trafficking as well
as those of other agencies involved in the control of legal trafficking of chemical
precursors.
The added value of the Pompidou Groups law enforcement activities in comparison
to those in other international fora is its geographical scope as an enlarged partial
agreement allowing to network among interested parties in pan-European and
Extra-European dimension.
The second main comparative advantage is the multidisciplinary composition of
several of its expert committees and groups bringing together representatives from
all competent drug-related services, be it law enforcement (police, customs, border
guards), prosecution, the judiciary and/or regulatory authorities. This allows to
improve effective international co-operation in the fight against drug trafficking and
to accelerate procedures and concrete information exchange among responsible
offers.
The themes dealt with by different expert groups include:
1. the development of a harmonised multi-disciplinary strategy for drug-detection at
European airports and to enhance subject-related inter-airports co-operation;
2. the acceleration of information exchange among law enforcement, officers,
representatives of regulatory boards and magistrates/prosecution in the field of
combating illegal production and trafficking of chemical precursors and
improvement of conditions for more rapid and direct contact among the agencies
and services concerned;



3. the elaboration of guidelines aimed at reducing drug supply on a world-wide

scale and the development of a drug supply reduction strategy with a view to
strengthening international co-operation.
Prevention of drug precursors diversion
Since 2009, three conferences were held on backtracking investigation, evidence
collection, sanction, and prevention of drug precursors diversion and on the
prevention of drug precursors diversion: perspectives for national and international
co-ordination. The target audience of both conferences included magistrates,
prosecutors, and judges, but also representatives from the chemical industry and
law enforcement.





Table of content



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Copyright 2012- Netherlands Police Agency National Dismantling Facility (LFO)


All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced and/or made public in
any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, by photocopying,
recording or in any other manner whatsoever, without explicit prior written permission

5



of the LFO (+31 343535259), and if permission is granted, solely with

acknowledgement of the source.





Summary

Since the beginning of 2011, a large number of conversion labs have been found in
the Netherlands. In these labs,
-phenylacetoacetonitrile (APAAN) is converted into
benzylmethylketone (BMK). This large scale APAAN to BMK conversion takes place
using a simple production method and limited resources and knowledge. There are
different methods for APAAN to BMK conversion, involving different types of acid.
Each conversion method has its own specific process-related problems and
hazards. The acids used are phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid, and hydrochloric acid.
Especially the use of hydrochloric acid may cause major environmental and health
problems. This memorandum was drawn up to increase knowledge of the subject
among emergency service providers and enforcement agencies, which will improve
their chances of properly assessing the type of conversion method and the risks
involved.
Introduction

-phenylacetoacetonitrile, CAS Registry Number: 4468-48-8, is a white to light

yellow crystalline powder produced from benzylcyanide. The substance is imported
under different names, some of which are false. Chapter 1
-phenylacetoacetonitrile
(APAAN) can be used as a raw material or reagent (building block) in organic
synthesis, both in the chemical industry and in scientific research. There are very
few known legal uses for APAAN. Chapter 2
There are different ways to convert APAAN to BMK:
1. APAAN with phosphoric acid (found in Poland)
2. APAAN with sulphuric acid, in which case:
a. The required heat is generated by means of cooking vessels;
b. The required heat is generated by the (exothermic) reaction between
the sulphuric acid and water.
3. APAAN with hydrochloric acid.
Subsequently, the chemical and technical process of each conversion method is
described. Chapter 3 After the conversion, the BMK must be separated Chapter 4 and
can be purified. Chapter 5
In the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI)s investigation of an illegal BMK
production lab that used sulphuric acid and heating, the yield of pure BMK proved to
be about 68% of the theoretical maximum yield. When the process was repeated on
a smaller scale at the NFIs, the yield came to about 74%. The literature describes a
yield of 77 to 86% for this BMK production process. Chapter 6
Though APAAN conversion labs can be investigated in the same way as regular
synthetic drugs labs, there are a number of specific focus areas, such as yield
calculation in %, quantities produced, process setup, recipes found, etc. Chapter 7
APAAN to BMK conversion entails specific hazards and risks, resulting from the
chemicals and production equipment used. Acids in combination with defective
production equipment plastic barrels and heating elements present great risks.
Modifications made to the vessels cause major problems during stabilization,
dismantling, transport and storage. Chapter 8


Many investigations have shown that waste created during the conversion and
separation of the substances is dumped outdoors or drained in the sewage system.
The conversion also produces significant emissions of harmful substances into the
environment and/or the air. In many cases, the authorities and society had to cope
with considerable damage to the environment and/or public facilities, such as the
sewage system, after a conversion lab had been dismantled and removed. Chapter 9
In addition to the standard detection equipment used when a synthetic drug
production location is entered, such as the GasAlert and the Micro-Alert that
measure the concentrations of the most prevalent gases CO, O2, CH4 (risk of
explosion), and (optionally) NH3 specific other tools should be used in APAAN
conversion labs to detect HCN (hydrogen cyanide) and HCL (hydrochloric acid). A
thermal imager can also be used. Chapter 10
The choice of personal protection gear is addressed comprehensively in chapter 11.
Based on the information in the chemistry charts and the operational experience
gained, we know that working in conversion labs requires extensive personal
protection, such as protective clothing and independent breathing equipment
(oxygen). The use of independent breathing equipment and chemical or gas proof
clothing is recommended due to the high concentrations of acids. We know from
experience that the acids severely erode the independent breathing equipment,
which is why this is best worn underneath the gas or chemicals suit. Chapter 11
After the technical and forensic evidence is gathered, the conversion laboratory
must be dismantled. Dismantling an APAAN conversion lab is subject to a number
of specific procedures, which should be observed in addition to the standard
dismantling procedures. Attention must be given to cooling down the process, the
modified and/or damaged plastic barrels, separating the waste flows, the afterreaction process, the packaging, and the decontamination procedure. Chapter 12
Thorough decontamination is required, due to the working method and the
substances used. Chapter 13 describes specific decontamination for the suspect(s),
the arrest team, patrolling officers, and forensic staff, the fire brigade and
dismantling facility staff.
After the lab has been dismantled and the equipment, chemicals and production
waste have been packaged, the materials must be transported to a suitable storage
location. During transport and storage, it is important to consider the release of
fumes or gases as a result of an ongoing reaction in a mixture or the reactivity of
certain substances. Storage must take place in well ventilated and chemical
resistant facility. It is therefore essential that suitable transport and storage are
used. Chapter 14
A press article published in Dutch daily De Telegraaf from the former Dutch
National Public Prosecutor Mr. Cees van Spierenburg, regarding explosive labs
plus a brief description of the role and tasks of the Dutch Dismantling Team can be
found in the Annex.
Driebergen, 12 December 2012
A.J. van Rijn








Introduction

Since the beginning of 2011, a large number of laboratories for the conversion of
phenylacetoacetonitrile to benzyl methyl ketone (BMK = 1 phenyl-2-propanone)
have been found in the Netherlands and other European countries, including
Belgium and Poland. Since the beginning of 2010, large quantities of this substance
(tens of thousands of kilos) have been imported into the Netherlands, either directly
from China, or via Belgium, Germany, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, Bulgaria,
Lithuania, Romania, Slovenia, Russia, Macedonia, and Italy.

-phenylacetoacetonitrile has not (yet) been included in the European regulations
referred to in the Abuse of Chemical Substances (Prevention) Act. However,
APAAN is included in the European Commissions Voluntary Monitoring List as a
substance known to be used for drug production. The Custom Services precursor
brochure also mentions APAAN. The Public Prosecution Service considers APAAN
a registered substance because it can easily be converted to BMK.
APAAN is frequently used for BMK production because:
The price of APAAN is relatively low as compared to the price of BMK;
APAAN to BMK conversion requires no specific chemical knowledge;
APAAN to BMK conversion does not require complex or expensive
production; and
A high return (between 60% and 75%) is easily achieved.
BMK is listed as 1 phenyl-2-propanone in Category 1 of European regulations
111/205 and 273/2004.
As BMK is a chemical product that can be produced in various ways, APAAN is
merely one of the pre-precursors that can be used for BMK production.

BMK (P-2-P) production diagram

APAAN to BMK conversion can be achieved in different ways, using different acids.
Each conversion method has its own specific process-related problems and risks.
Since February 2011, the National Dismantling Facility (LFO) has encountered a


number of APAAN conversion labs that used sulphuric acid, while conversion using
hydrochloric acid emerged in 2012. The latter method, in combination with the
location of some of these laboratories in residential areas and the manner of
processing and disposal of the hazardous production waste, resulted in a number of
highly complex, risky, and time consuming dismantling operations conducted by the
LFO. Many of these operations presented an acute danger to the people living in
the neighbourhood, the emergency services, the investigating officers and the
environment.
This memorandum was drawn up because the conversion methods differ
substantially and may lead to serious danger. The objective is to expand knowledge
of APAAN and the production of BMK to increase familiarity with the conversion
process, thereby improving the ability to assess the type of conversion process and
its inherent risks. This memorandum is based on the knowledge and experience
gained by the LFO during Crime Crime Scene (CS) investigations and the ensuing
technical investigations. In addition, we gladly used the analysis results gathered by
the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI), and the NFI information bulletin on
APAAN.
This memorandum addresses the following subjects:
1. General information about
-phenylacetoacetonitrile (APAAN)
2. Known applications
3.
-phenylacetoacetonitrile conversion processes the following is described
for each process:
a. The chemical process
b. The technical process
4. Separation
5. Purification
6. Yield of BMK produced from APAAN
7. Forensic focus points in CS investigation
8. Dangers and risks
9. Environmental aspects
10. Detection
11. Personal protection tools
12. Dismantling
13. Decontamination
14. Transport and storage
15. References
16. Annex
To improve readability and to clarify the text, we used photographs and technical
and other drawings provided by the LFO. In addition, we used the information and
chemical equations provided by the NFIs Narcotics Department.





1 2

1. General information about
-phenylacetoacetonitrile (APAAN)

Chemical formula for APAAN

Image of APAAN

Synonyms:
2-phenylacetoacetonitrile

-acetylbenzylcyanide
3-oxo-2-phenylbutanenitrile
2-oxo-1-phenylpropylcyanide
1-cyano-1-phenylpropane-2-on
1-cyano-BMK
3-keto-2-phenylbutyronitrile

-aceto-
-cyanotoluene
CAS number: 4468-48-8
EINECS: 224-737-4
Formula: C10H9NO
Molecular weight: 159.18
Melting point: 88 94 oC
Density: 1.086 g/cm3
Physical form: white to yellow crystalline powder
Risk Codes: R20/21/22; R36/37/38
Transport Information: UN 3439
There have been several seizures of APAAN imported under false names or
registration details. A few of these names or registration details are:
4-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyquinoline
Benzoylbiphenyl (syn.: 4-phenylbenzophenone; CAS number: 2128-93-0)
Butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber
Consol






























































1
2

Source: International Narcotic Control Board APAAN Alert No. 2/2012

Source: Netherlands Forensic Institute, NFI Information bulletin on APAAN



4-Cyano-4'-n-dodecylbiphenyl (syn.: 4'-Dodecyl-4-biphenylcarbonitrile; CAS

number 57125-49-2)
Diphenylacetonitrile
Hair conditioner, or hair lacquer (HS code: 3305.30.00)
Lithopone
Matt hardener (HS code: 3824.90.99.90)
Pesticides
PMC89809FF Pharmaceutical Product Phenylsalicylate
Silicon dioxide
Sodium hexamethaphosphate
Sodium d-pantothenate
Titanium dioxide
Novadan Reinigungpulver
1-Hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyquinoline
Calcium stearate

Label on a bag of APAAN





2. Known applications

The substance
-phenylacetoacetonitrile (APAAN) can be used as a raw material or

reagent (building block) for organic syntheses, both in the chemical industry and in
scientific research. The best-known application of APAAN is as a raw material for
benzyl methyl ketone (BMK) synthesis, which is described in scientific literature and
on various websites and internet forums with information about synthetic drug
production. More recently a number of forensic publications have described the
production of BMK from APAAN as discovered in various police investigations.
Two obsolete applications of APAAN are mentioned in the patent literature, in
which APAAN is part of a synthesis route. The first application involves the
synthesis of phenyl methyl fumaric dinitrile and phenyl methyl maleic dinitrile,
substances that may be used in the production of colorants (GB739275-1955); the
second involves the synthesis of a substance that is mentioned as a possible
stabilizer of photographic emulsions (GB62994-1949): an amino-1,2,4triazaindolizine. Given scientific progress, it is unlikely that the above processes are
still in use.










 






3.
-phenylacetoacetonitrile conversion methods

Over the past two years, APAAN has been imported in bulk into Europe, and the
Netherlands in particular. Shipments varying from 50 kg to 2,000 kg were taken into
the Netherlands by road, water and air. The APAAN is usually packaged as a
powder in cardboard barrels or boxes. In a number of cases, the packaging still
contained the original labels, but in other cases, false labels stating a different
substance name were used. This is called mislabelling.
The APAAN is subsequently taken to a location where it can be converted into
BMK. This illegal conversion is relatively simple and does not require expensive
production equipment or extensive chemical knowledge. The APAAN can be
converted with the aid of a strong acid, such as phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid or
hydrochloric acid, and in some cases heating of the reaction mixture. The
conversion results in BMK, an ammonium salt, and CO2. (plus some remaining acid
and water).

General conversion formula for APAAN

As the conversion process does not take place in an ideal production environment,
or under the best of circumstances, the post-production residue will contain a
mixture of BMK, acid, water, ammonium salt, and sometimes APAAN, depending on
the substance ratios. In addition, the mixture will contain a number of by-products,
generated by the BMK and the acidic conditions.
In a number of investigations it emerged that illegal producers use an excess of
acids to ensure full conversion of the APAAN. If water is added to the process or if
the acid contains water, the reaction mixture will contain water at the end of the
conversion process. The water content will be small in case of phosphoric acid. Two
layers of fluid will develop: BMK on top of an acidic watery fluid.



Ammonium salt crystal

The conversion of APAAN to BMK takes place in a number of stages, namely:

Intermediary stages of the APAAN to BMK conversion. Source: NFI Narcotics department

APAAN to BMK conversion requires a hydrolysis reaction. This is a reaction with

water that can be carried out using an acid (hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid or
phosphoric acid) or a strong base, such as caustic soda. (sodium hydroxide)
The reaction takes place in a number of stages. In hydrochloric acid, for example,
the CN group is first converted into an acid group, COOH, simultaneously forming


ammonium chloride. Chemically speaking, ammonium chloride is NH4CL, which

contains the N atom of the CN group. If sulphuric acid is used in the reaction,
ammonium sulphate will be formed in this stage.
In the following reaction stage, decarboxylation takes place. This means that CO2 is
formed out of the acid group. After this, the reaction is finished and the APAAN to
BMK conversion complete. Under normal conditions, no HCN the extremely
poisonous hydrocyanic acid is formed during the reaction. It is unknown what
happens if the same reaction takes place at very high temperatures.4 In the known
production processes, this can only happen if no water remains in the reaction
system, as water ensures that the mixtures boiling point is 100C. At 100C,
APAAN is in liquid form, which facilitates the blending process.
There are different ways to convert APAAN into BMK, namely:
1. APAAN with phosphoric acid (found in Poland)
2. APAAN with sulphuric acid, in which case:
a. The required heat is generated by means of cooking vessels;
b. The required heat is generated by the (exothermic) reaction between
the sulphuric acid and water.
3. APAAN with hydrochloric acid.
The chemical and technical processes will be described for each conversion
method.






  












3.1 APAAN conversion using phosphoric acid

The conversion of APAAN using phosphoric acid is a method that has not yet been
encountered in production labs in the Netherlands, but was found several times in
Poland.

Chemical equation for APAAN to BMK conversion with the aid of phosphoric acid

Description of the chemical process

In stage 1, APAAN is mixed with phosphoric acid. The mixture must then be heated
to a temperature of 150C up to 160C to allow for proper conversion. This is a
much higher temperature then when sulphuric acid or hydrochloric acid are used.
No water is added to the reaction mixture; this would prevent the mixture from
reaching the high temperature required, as water evaporates at temperatures >
100C.
The mixture is heated for several hours, during which the oily crude BMK is
separated from the acidic bottom layer. The bottom layer consists of acid with some
dissolved BMK, ammonium phosphate and, potentially, some unconverted APAAN.
Description of the technical process
Given that the temperature of the reaction mixture must be 150C up to 160o C if
phosphoric acid is used, an external heating source is required. There are several
options, such as electric heating mantles and gas burners, which have the
disadvantage that exact temperature control is impossible, or electric heating in
combination with thermal oil.



Thermal heating (Source: CBI Poland)

Glass vessels, such as round bottom flasks or reaction flasks, can be used as
reaction vessels. Metal reaction vessels with a protective coating such as enamel or
Teflon on the inside can also be used. The coating ensures that the strong acids do
not corrode the metal.



Polish APAAN conversion lab (Source: CBI Poland)

3.2 APAAN conversion using sulphuric acid

The first APAAN conversion labs in the Netherlands used sulphuric acid and water.

Chemical equation of APAAN to BMK conversion with the aid of sulphuric acid

Two production methods were found for conversion with the aid of sulphuric acid:
a. Use of an external heating source;
b. Heating resulting from an exothermic reaction between the sulphuric
acid and water.
Both methods will be explained in the following section.

3.2.1 Use of an external heating source

This conversion method requires a source of heat. In the first APAAN conversion
labs that were discovered, 22-litre preserving kettles were frequently used. An
advantage of these kettles is that they are easily modified. It is simple to make holes
to install exhaust pipes for fumes and gases, and a stirring mechanism.
Description of the chemical process


Stage 1: the APAAN is mixed with water and concentrated sulphuric acid. The
sulphuric acid may also be slightly diluted beforehand. As the mixing process
generates a lot of heat, the mixture must be cooled. The reaction mixture can be
cooled to 100 C, which makes it possible to immediately proceed to stage 2.
Stage 2: the mixture is kept at a temperature of 100 C for a little while, and
subsequently cooled to below room temperature.

Heat image of a preserving kettle

Stage 3: a large quantity of water is added to the mixture, after it has been cooled to
the right temperature.
Stage 4: the reaction mixture is reheated to 100 C and kept at this temperature for
several hours, during which time the oily crude BMK separates from the acidic
bottom layer. The bottom layer consists of diluted sulphuric acid, with some
dissolved BMK, ammonium sulphate, possibly some unconverted APAAN and a few
by-products.
When preserving kettles were used in one of the first APAAN conversion labs, the
mixing ratio was 2.2 kg of APAAN to 4 litres of concentrated sulphuric acid and 12
litres of water.
Description of the technical process
During the first production stage, the APAAN is mixed with concentrated sulphuric
acid. The heat generated in the process must be reduced by cooling the mixture.
When preserving kettles were used, a cooling system consisting of a mortar tub with
a drainage pipe in the base was installed. The preserving kettle was placed on three
bricks on the bottom of the tub. The bricks prevented the preserving kettle from


touching the wet base of the tub and the electric heating element from continued
exposure to water.
A ring of plastic tubing equipped with thin nozzles on the inside had been installed
on top of the mortar tub. This tubing had been attached to the water pipes, so that
the nozzles sprayed cold water against the outside of the preserving kettle. This
allowed for the controlled reduction of the reaction mixtures temperature. We will
see a similar cooling system a ring of tubing around the reaction vessel in the
description of other conversion methods.

Preserving kettles with cooling system

Installed cooling system

On top of the preserving kettles is a 24 Volt electromotor that powers a stirring

mechanism, which mixes the APAAN with the acid, optimizing the reaction.
After completion of the second stage, the mixture is transferred to a second set of
processing equipment. In this case, preserving kettles without a cooling system
have been used. Water is added after the mixture has been transferred. The
mixture is then heated to a temperature of 95 to 100 C. Because of their limited
production capacity about 1.5 to 2 litres of BMK per production batch several
preserving kettles are used simultaneously. These are all attached to an exhaust
system that removes the poisonous or harmful fumes and gases.
In one of the first APAAN conversion labs (February 2011), six preserving kettles
were used for the first and the second stage (mixing the APAAN with sulphuric acid)
and 18 preserving kettles for stages three and four.



4 preserving kettles with joint exhaust installation

3.2.2 Heating by means of the exothermic reaction between sulphuric acid and
water

This conversion method does not use an external heating source, but reaction heat
generated by mixing sulphuric acid with water. The rate at which the water is added
determines the amount of heat generated.
Description of the chemical process
Stage 1: the APAAN is mixed with water and concentrated sulphuric acid. As this
generates a great deal of heat, the mixture must be cooled.
Stage 2: after cooling, a large quantity of water is added to the mixture. This should
be done in a controlled manner. Mixing water and sulphuric acid generates a great
deal of heat, which should be limited by adding the water little by little over several
hours. The temperature should not rise too much. In the process, the oily crude
BMK is separated from the acidic bottom layer. The bottom layer consists of diluted
sulphuric acid, a little BMK, ammonium sulphate, and possibly some unconverted
APAAN and a few by-products.
Description of the technical process
In principle, this conversion method is similar to the method that uses an external
heat source. The first laboratory where this method was used was found in
February 2011. In this lab, a plastic reaction vessel was used, with a content of 750
litres.



As was the case with the preserving kettles, this reaction vessel was equipped with
a cooling system on the outside, consisting of a ring of copper piping with nozzles.
The outside of the metal grid had been sealed with foil that caught the coolingwater. To heat the reaction mixture, water was added using a fluids pump. During
the conversion process, the temperature was monitored by an electronic
thermometer.

Plastic reaction vessel

Electronic thermometer

Subsequently, the content of the vessel was mixed using the stirring mechanism.
The fumes and gases released in the process were cooled with the aid of a cooling
system made from double-walled PVC tubes. This cooling system could be
equipped with active carbon filters at the tail ends.
A large-scale conversion set-up like this was found only once. Usually, plastic
barrels with band clamp lids are used, which are placed in a mortar tub. A similar
cooling system is installed around the lids of these barrels. The mixture is stirred by
a electrically powered stirring mechanism installed over the barrel. A disadvantage
of this conversion set-up is that, unlike the preserving kettles and the plastic vessels
mentioned above, this is an open process, which means that fumes and gases are
released from the open top of the barrel and will spread freely throughout the
production space. Therefore, the air in the production space should be extracted by
an exhaust system, possibly in combination with an active carbon filter.
The emission from the reaction vessel into the production space is a major
disadvantage of this set-up. Illegal producers, as well as investigation and
emergency services, will be exposed to these fumes and gases in the case of a
calamity and/or investigation. In addition, the material in the production space will
be contaminated and corroded by the acid and poisonous fumes and gases. Further
processing of the content of such large set-ups was shown to cause considerable
pollution of the location.



Band clamp lid barrel with stirring motor and water-cooling system on the bottom



3.3 APAAN conversion using hydrochloric acid

Since June 2012, APAAN conversion labs have been found in the Netherlands in
which concentrated hydrochloric acid is used instead of phosphoric or sulphuric
acid. The main risk involved in this conversion method is the hydrochloric acids
strong evaporation. If heated, the hydrochloric acid gas will evaporate from the
mixture. Without cooling the fumes and/or a good gas scrubber, the hydrochloric
acid gas can be released into the environment and the air. As with phosphoric acid,
the mixture will have to be heated during the production process. The use of a
heating source (heating mantle) in combination with plastic clamp band lids in these
laboratories is noteworthy.

Reaction equation for the conversion of APAAN to BMK with the aid of hydrochloric acid

Stage 1 the conversion reaction

The APAAN is mixed with hydrochloric acid, at a ratio of 1 litre APAAN to 3 litres
hydrochloric acid 36%. This mixture must be stirred thoroughly, and heated to a
temperature of 95C for a period of 10 hours, during which time the mixture must be
stirred regularly. The fumes and gases generated during the process are removed
through a gas scrubber, which neutralizes the fumes.
The heaters are turned off as soon as the conversion reaction is complete. The
acidic, dark brown BMK will float on top of the fluid. It can be separated using a
separatory funnel. If large quantities of APAAN have been converted into BMK, the
BMK can be skimmed off using a metal ladle.
Description of the technical process
APAAN to BMK conversion using of hydrochloric acid does not require any complex
or expensive production equipment. Since hydrochloric acid has a corrosive effect
on iron and stainless steel, plastic barrels are used for the conversion reaction.
These may vary in size from 80 to 220 litres.
The mixing of the reaction mixture of APAAN and hydrochloric acid is not done with
electric mixing equipment, as is the case for APAAN conversion with sulphuric acid,
but is usually done by hand, using a wooden or plastic stick or spatula.



In most conversion labs that used hydrochloric acid, the set-up resembled the
schematic representation below.

Schematic representation of stage 1

The two outer barrel are used for the conversion of APAAN to BMK. Tubes
protruding from the lids of these barrels lead into the central barrel, which contains a
fluid either a water and caustic soda solution or an alkaline soap that neutralizes
the fumes.
The central barrel may also contain an internal spraying mechanism: A submersible
pump in the liquid and a ring of tubing with nozzles immediately under the lid create
a mist of the liquid in the barrel. This is done to optimize neutralization and
precipitation of the fumes.


Spraying mechnism

The fumes and smell released in filling, mixing and emptying the barrels is extracted
by an extractor fan equipped on the front with an active carbon filter.

Conversion lab in Tilburg

Conversion lab in Heumen

As the reaction between the APAAN and the hydrochloric acid generates no or
insufficient heat to complete the conversion to BMK, an external heating source is
required. Heating mantles are frequently used for this purpose. In the industrial
sector, these mantles are used to heat fluids with a melting point around room
temperature for easier transport or processing.



Brochure with an overview of the various types of heating mantles

The heating mantle can be attached to the plastic barrel simply using three
adjustable straps, after which the desired temperature is set with the aid of a
thermostat.

Heating mantle thermostat



Applied heating mantle





4.

Separation stage 2

After the APAAN is converted to BMK, the BMK can be separated off using a
separatory funnel or a metal ladle. At that time, the BMK is still acidic and can be
neutralized using a caustic soda (NaOH) solution, with a ratio of 25 kg caustic soda
to 50 litres water.
This reaction will generate heat. In some conversion labs, the barrels used for this
stage are cooled in metal cooling basins filled with a layer of cooling-water. In the
labs in question, the reaction mixture was pumped into plastic barrels in the cooling
basins after the first stage: the conversion stage.
After the BMK is neutralized, it can be separated with the aid of a separatory funnel
or a metal ladle.



Schematic representation of stage 2 neutralisation -



Neutralization space



Barrel with floating dark coloured BMK



5.

Purification stage 3

After conversion and neutralization, the BMK is dark brown in colour, and can
subsequently be purified or cleaned using steam distillation or another type of
distillation. This distillation removes water and synthesis contaminations with boiling
points that vary significantly from that of BMK. After distillation, the remaining BMK
is pale yellow.
Comment:
The neutralization and purification stages are not essential. The acidic, dark brown
coloured BMK can be used as it is for the production of amphetamine and
methamphetamine. In some conversion labs, only the conversion process was
found, other labs also showed evidence of the neutralization stage.

Schematic representation of steam distillation







6. APAAN to BMK conversion yield

The NFI investigation of an illegal BMK production location, where APAAN was
converted with the aid of sulphuric acid and heat, showed that approx. 2.25 kg of
APAAN yielded approx. 1.27 kg of pure BMK. This is about 68% of the maximum
theoretical yield. When the process was repeated on a smaller scale at the NFI on
the basis of 64 grams of APAAN, a yield of about 74% was achieved, while the
literature6 describes a yield of 77 to 86% for BMK production with this process. It is
unknown what the expected yield would be for the conversion of APAAN using
sulphuric acid without an external heat source, or using hydrochloric acid.
The yield of APAAN to BMK conversion depends on several factors, including the
purity of the raw materials, the conversion route, the reaction circumstances, and
the purification degree of the final product. The reaction circumstances are
determined by the producers knowledge, the production equipment, and the
conversion method. The yield may vary for each conversion location. It is therefore
essential to carry out an extensive technical and forensic investigation of each
production location.
The yield of each location can be determined on the basis of a technical and
forensic investigation of this kind. This information is essential in the calculation of
the illegally obtained profits and the ensuing confiscation proceedings.

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Information bulletin on APAAN



 
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7. Forensic focus points in a CS investigation

Though APAAN conversion labs can be investigated in a manner similar to the

investigation of ordinary synthetic drug labs, there are a number of specific points
to be taken into account, namely:
Yield calculation: To properly estimate the yield of APAAN to BMK conversion, it is
necessary to accurately determine the quantity of BMK oil in the reaction vessel.
For this purpose, the BMK must be separated either by using separatory funnel or
by skimming.

1,65 litres of

Yield of APAAN conversion with the aid of sulphuric acid in a preserving kettle

The quantity produced: Based on the known reaction ratios or the recipes found it is
possible to estimate the quantity of BMK produced. For APAAN conversion using
hydrochloric acid, the ratio is 1:3, on the basis of 37% hydrochloric acid. It is
important to identify and register all packaging, its original content and remaining
content at all production locations. If possible, examine the chemicals to determine
their concentration.



Process stages: As plastic barrels or reaction vessels are frequently used, the
temperature of an ongoing production process must be determined at the time of
entry. This is essential both for safety reasons and for the gathering of evidence.
With the aid of a thermal image camera, such as the FLIR-i7, it is simple to measure
the temperature at a distance and produce a digital photograph that can be used to
assess the risks, determine the selection of samples, and serve as evidence.
If a heating mantle is used, it is impossible to determine the process temperature
with the aid of a thermal imaging camera unless the mantle is removed, as it
insulates the outside of the reaction vessel. In such cases, the temperature can be
read on the heating mantles control unit, and should subsequently be registered. It
is also possible to use the thermal image camera to measure the heat at the top of
the reaction vessel. This has the disadvantage that such an image does not reflect
the stratification of the reaction vessels content. In addition, it will be necessary to
be close to the reaction vessel, which may be impossible because of the
contamination risk, heat, tubing and cabling, or may be undesirable for safety
reasons.

Thermal image with heating mantle

Thermal image without heating mantle

Recipes: Though the reaction itself is quite straightforward, there may be

differences in the recipes used at the production locations that use the same
APAAN conversion method. The difference may involve:
o Acid - APAAN ratio
o Concentration of the acid used in %, in combination with the
quantity of water added
o Heating temperature
o Heating period
o With or without mixing
o With of without neutralization




The recipes found can be an indication of the above points. As recipes are
frequently shared, similar recipes can be found at different production locations.
Recipes, in combination with a thorough inventory of the production location, and
tactical investigation and analysis by the NFIs narcotics department, may provide
information about the scope and yield of the production. This information can help
the Public Prosecution Service to determine a penalty and a confiscation sum.

Recipe for APAAN conversion using sulphuric acid



Neutralization recipe for a reaction mixture

containing BMK

8. Dangers and risks

This chapter discusses the specific dangers and risks of the chemicals and
production equipment involved in APAAN to BMK conversion. We will give a brief
overview of the risks and dangers of the chemicals. We refer to the relevant
chemistry charts for a full description. It should be noted that the actual situation
may differ significantly from the information in the chemistry charts. Heating
hydrochloric acid, for instance, will result in a major increase in vapour pressure,
which will strongly increase its emission and concentration, and therefore the
possible exposure to the chemical. The information in the chemistry charts can, of
course, be used to choose detection equipment, personal protection gear,
disinfectants, and emergency measures.



8.1 The chemicals used

-Phenylacetoacetonitrile
CAS number: 4468-48-8

Physical characteristics
Boiling point
Melting point
o
Vapour pressure in mbar at 20 C
Density
Solubility in water

o
92 94 C
Unknown
1.086 g/cm
Unknown

Important information
White to yellowish crystalline powder
MAC value
MAC TGG-15min
Smell
Acute respiratory hazard
Manner of ingesting
Direct consequences

Unknown
Unknown
Typical chemical smell, some people vaguely smell bitter almonds.
At 20C this substance barely evaporates, but the powder can quickly
reach a high concentration in the air if disturbed/atomized.
The substance can be ingested by breathing in powder particles or by
swallowing.
This substance is irritating to the respiratory organs, eyes and skin,
and can be damaging in higher concentrations.

Direct dangers
Fire

The substance forms toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures,

namely CN (cyanide) and NOx (nitrogen oxides).

Symptoms
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes
Ingestion

Irritating and harmful when inhaled

Irritating and harmful in case of skin contact
Irritating to the eyes
Irritating and harmful when swallowed

Prevention
Inhalation
Skin



Extraction system (general and localized), respirator (P2)

Gloves (butyl rubber, PVC), protective clothing

Eyes
Ingestion

Acid goggles, face shield with safety goggles, eye protection in

combination with a respirator.
-

First aid
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes

Swallowing

Fresh air, rest, semi-sitting position, and immediately call in

emergency medical aid.
Remove contaminated clothing, rinse for at least 20 minutes in lots of
water, and consult a physician
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
worn, then take the victim to a physician or an ophthalmologist.
Continue rinsing the eyes during transport.
Rinse the mouth and spit out the water! Do not induce vomiting, and
immediately call in emergency medical aid.

Emergency situation
Fire causes an acute health hazard! Immediately clear and cordon off the danger zone. Alert an expert.

Environmental consequences
Unknown

-phenylacetoacetonitrile is produced from benzyl cyanide. The
phenylacetoacetonitrile molecule contains a cyanide group that, during the
conversion to BMK, is not removed or converted as a whole, but in parts. The
release of a cyanide compound may lead to serious health damage, or may even be
fatal. Because the conversion takes place in a strong acid phosphoric, sulphuric,
or hydrochloric acid in the presence of water, little or no cyanide will be released
during the conversion process.7 (see chapter 3: types of APAAN conversion)
It should be noted that cyanide may be released when the production process is
overheated, for instance if gas burners are used, or if there is a fire. A fire at a
production location where
-phenylacetoacetonitrile is stored in powder or partly
processed form is therefore extremely dangerous, especially if the location is not
recognized as an APAAN lab or storage facility.
Cyanide is mainly known as the hydrogen cyanide gas compound (HCN), the
potassium salt of hydrogen cyanide [= potassium cyanide (KCN)], and the calcium
salt [= calcium cyanide], because of their immediate toxic effect.
The cyanide ion combines with cytochrome A3, a cell enzyme in the respiratory
chain, which blocks the dissimilation (exchange) of oxygen. This causes death
within minutes. The lethal dose of KCN for an adult is estimated at 10mg/kg, and for
HCN at 3.7 mg/kg (these are the LD50 values for rats). Some people are able to
smell hydrogen cyanide: they notice a vague almond-like smell. Whether or not you
smell this is genetically determined and most people will not notice anything.


 

  






 
  


  


 


 








  

 
 
 
  


 


   



Hydrochloric acid (about 37% in water)

CAS number 7647-01-0

Physical characteristics
Boiling point
Melting point
o
Vapour pressure in mbar at 20 C
Relative density in relation to water
Relative density (air =1)
Soluability in water

57 C (forms an azeotropic mixture, boiling point 108 C, contains

20.22% HCL)
o
-35 C
158 mbar
1.2
1.04
Fully soluble

Important information
Forms corrosive acidic mists in air, that are heavier than air and spread along the ground. The solution in
water is a strong acid, reacts violently with bases, and is corrosive. It corrodes many types of metal, while
forming combustible gas (hydrogen). Reacts violently with oxidizers, forming toxic fumes (including chlorine).
Can react with formaldehyde, forming the highly poisonous dichloromethylether.
3
MAC value
5 p.p.m. 8 mg/m
3
MAC TGG-15min
10 p.p.m. 15 mg/m
Smell
It is unknown whether smelling the substance in harmful.
Acute respiratory hazard
Evaporation of this substance at 20C can rapidly result in a harmful
concentration in the air.
Manner of ingestion
The substance can be ingested by inhalation of the fumes or by
swallowing.
Direct consequences
The substance burns the eyes, the skin, and the respiratory organs.
Inhalation of the fumes or mist may cause pulmonary oedema, but only
after symptoms of burning of the mucosa of the eyes and/or higher
airways. Exposure to high concentrations of the substance may cause
death. The effects may be delayed.



Direct dangers
Fire

Non-combustible

Symptoms
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes
Ingestion

Burning, sore throat, coughing, shortness of breath, laboured

breathing, wheezing.
Burning, redness, pain, blisters, burns.
Burning, redness, pain, visual impairment, excess lacrimation (flood of
tears).
Burning, blisters on the lips and in the mouth, burning pain in the
mouth, throat, gullet, and stomach; nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea,
shortness of breath.

Prevention
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes
Ingestion

Extraction system (general and localized), respirator (combination filter

type BE/P2)
Gloves (butyl rubber, PVC), protective clothing
Acid goggles, face shield with safety goggles, eye protection in
combination with a respirator.
-

First aid
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes

Swallowing

Always consult a physician!

Fresh air, rest, semi-sitting position, immediately call in emergency
medical aid.
Remove contaminated clothing and rinse for at least 20 minutes with
lots of water, or take a shower. Consult a physician.
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
worn, then take the victim to a physician or an ophthalmologist.
Continue rinsing the eyes during transport.
Rinse the mouth and spit out the water! Do not induce vomiting, and
immediately call in emergency medical aid.

Emergency situation
Acute health hazard! In case of significant quantities: immediately clear and cordon off the danger
zone or ask a competent party to do so. Alert an expert.

Environmental consequence
This substance is harmful to the aquatic environment.



Sulphuric acid (37 98% in water)

CAS number: 7664-93-9

Physical characteristic
Boiling point
Melting point
o
Vapour pressure in mbar at 20 C
Relative density in relation to water
Relative density (air =1)
Solubility in water

> 100 C (boiling point of the 64% solution is 142 C, boiling point of
o
the 98% solution is 290 C)
o
-32 C (64% solution)
0.001 mbar
1.84
3.4
Fully soluble

Important information
Colourless solution. The fumes mix well with air. When heated or burned, the substance separates, forming
poisonous fumes, including sulphur dioxide. The substance is a strong oxidizer, and reacts violently with
combustible and deoxidizing substances, and corrodes clothing. It is a strong acid and reacts violently with
bases and is corrosive. It corrodes many types of metal, while forming a combustible gas (hydrogen). The
concentrated acid does not affect led and steel. Reacts violently with oxidizers like chlorates,
permanganates, and organic substances, solvents, and many other substances, causing a combustion and
explosion risk.
3
MAC value
1 mg/m
Acute respiratory hazard
Evaporation at 20C cannot or only very slowly cause a harmful
concentration of the substance in the air. Atomization will cause a
harmful concentration much more quickly.
Manner of ingestion
The substance can be ingested by the body by inhalation of the
fumes, by inhalation of the aerosol, or by swallowing.
Direct consequences
The substance and the fumes burn the eyes, skin, and respiratory
organs. It burns if swallowed. Inhalation of the fumes or the aerosol
may cause pulmonary oedema. After swallowing, the substance
may reach the lungs, which would cause pneumonia. Exposure to
high concentrations of the substance may cause death.

Direct dangers
Fire
Explosion



Non-combustible. Risk of combustion or explosion due to the many

reactions.
Risk of explosion due to the many reactions.

Symptoms
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes
Ingestion

Burning, coughing, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, blue lips

or nails, palpitations, laboured breathing.
Burning, burns that do not heal well.
Burning, redness and pain, corneal damage, impaired visibility,
serious burns.
Burning, blisters on the lips and in the mouth, stomach cramps,
nausea, diarrhoea, coughing, shortness of breath, laboured
breathing.

Prevention
Fire
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes

No open fire, no sparks, and no smoking. No contact with metals

and organic substances.
Ventilation, Extraction system (general and localized), respirator
(filter type E).
Gloves (butyl rubber, polyethylene), protective clothing.
Acid goggles, face shield with safety goggles, eye protection in
combination with a respirator.

First aid
Fire
Inhalation

Skin

Eyes

Swallowing

In case of fire in direct surroundings: all extinguishing substances

allowed.
Fresh air, rest semi-sitting position, apply artificial respiration if
necessary, specific treatment required. Immediately call in
emergency medical aid.
In case of skin burns, do not remove any stuck clothing. Rinse with
a lot of water first, then remove clothing, then rinse again. Consult a
doctor and immediately call in emergency medical aid.
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
worn, then take the victim to a physician or an ophthalmologist.
Continue rinsing the eyes during transport.
Rinse the mouth and spit out the water! Do not induce vomiting, and
immediately call in emergency medical aid.

Emergency situation
Acute health hazard. Immediately clear and cordon off the danger zone or ask a competent party to
do so. Alert an expert.

Environmental
consequences
This substance is harmful to the aquatic environment.



Phosphoric acid (25 85% in water) (ortho-phosphoric acid)

CAS number: 7664-38-2

Physical characteristics
Boiling point
Melting point
o
Vapour pressure in mbar at 20 C
Relative density (air =1)
Solvability in water

158 C (for an 85% solution)

o
< 21 C
2 mbar
1.0
Fully solvable

Important information
Colourless and practically odourless solution. The fumes mix well with air. The substance separates
when heated or burned, forming toxic fumes, including phosphorus pentoxide (see below). The
substance is a moderately strong acid and reacts violently with bases, and is corrosive. It corrodes
many types of metal, forming combustible gas (hydrogen). Reacts violently with oxidizers and many
other compounds.
3
MAC value
0.2 p.p.m. 1 mg/m
3
MAC TGG-15min
0.5 p.p.m. 2 mg/m
Acute respiratory hazard
A concentration in the air that causes a health hazard will be
reached fairly slowly as a result of evaporation at 20 C; much
more rapidly when the substance is vaporized
Manner of ingestion
The substance can be ingested into the body by inhalation of
the fumes, through the skin, and by swallowing.
Direct consequences
High concentrations of the substance burn the eyes and
respiratory organs. An aerosol of the substance burns the skin.
Inhalation of the fumes may cause pulmonary oedema, but only
after a burning effect on the mucosa of the eyes and/or higher
airways. Exposure to higher concentrations may cause death.

Direct dangers
Fire

Non-combustible.

Symptoms
Inhalation
Skin



Burning, irritation, sore throat and coughing, difficulty breathing,

shortness of breath, laboured breathing.
Redness and pain, a burning sensation and blisters.

Eyes
Ingestion

Burning, redness and pain, impaired visibility, corneal damage,

serious burns.
Burning, blisters on the lips and in the mouth, stomach cramps,
nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea.

Prevention
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes

Ventilation, extraction system (general and localized), respirator

(combination filter type BE/P2).
Gloves (butyl rubber, PVC), protective clothing.
Face shield with safety goggles, eye protection in combination
with respiratory protection.

First aid
Fire
Inhalation

Skin

Eyes

Swallowing

In case of fire in the direct surroundings: all fire extinguishing

substances allowed.
Fresh air, rest, semi-sitting position, apply artificial respiration if
necessary. Consult a physician and immediately call in
emergency medical aid.
In case of skin burns, do not remove any stuck clothing. Rinse
with a lot of water first, then remove the clothing, then rinse
again. Consult a doctor and immediately call in emergency
medical aid.
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact
lenses, if worn, then take the victim to a physician or an
ophthalmologist. Continue rinsing the eyes during transport.
Rinse the mouth and spit out the water! Do not induce vomiting,
and immediately call in emergency medical aid.

Emergency situation
Acute health hazard. In case of large quantities immediately clear and cordon off the danger
zone or ask a competent party to do so. Alert an expert.

Environmental consequenc
This substance is harmful to the aquatic environment.



Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)

CAS number: 1310-73-2

Fysical characteristics
Boiling point
Melting point
o
Vapour pressure in mbar at 700 C
Solvability in water

1390 C
o
318 C
1 mbar
111

Important information
White hygroscopic solid substance in various forms. The substance is a strong base, reacts violently with
acids and is corrosive to various metals, including aluminium, copper, magnesium and zinc. Reacts
violently with halogenated hydrocarbons and nitro compounds, with a risk of combustion and explosion.
Reacts with water (soluble), generating significant heat, and the risk of forming burning mist.
MAC value
Not established
Acute respiratory hazard
At 20C this substance barely evaporates, but the powder can
quickly reach a high concentration in the air if disturbed.
Manner of ingestion
The substance can be ingested by breathing in powder particles or
by swallowing.
Direct consequences
The fumes of the substance burn the eyes, the skin, and the
respiratory organs. Swallowing the substance causes burning.
Inhalation of the substance may cause pulmonary oedema. The
effects may be delayed.

Direct dangers
Fire



Non-combustible.

Symptoms
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes
Swallowing

Burning, sore throat, coughing, shortness of breath, laboured

breath, unconsciousness.
Burning, redness, pain, burns.
Burning, impaired visibility, serious burns.
Burning, sore throat, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting.

Prevention
Inhalation
Skin
Eyes

Ventilation (if not in powder form), localized extraction system,

respirator (filter type P2)
Gloves (butyl rubber, PVC)
Face shield with safety goggles, eye protection in combination with
respiratory protection.

First aid
Fire
Inhalation
Skin

Eyes

Swallowing

In case of fire in the direct surroundings: all fire extinguishing

substances allowed.
Fresh air, rest, semi-sitting position, apply artificial respiration if
necessary. Immediately call in emergency medical aid.
Remove contaminated clothing and rinse for at least 20 minutes
with lots of water, or take a shower. Immediately call in emergency
medical aid.
Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
worn, then take the victim to a physician or an ophthalmologist.
Continue rinsing the eyes during transport.
Rinse the mouth and spit out the water! Do not induce vomiting, and
immediately call in emergency medical aid..

Emergency situation
Acute health hazard. In case of large quantities, immediately clear and cordon off the danger zone
or ask a competent party to do so. Alert an expert.

Environmental
consequences
This substance is harmful to the aquatic environment.



8.2 Production equipment

Band clamp lid barrels in combination with heating mantles

No expensive and complex equipment is required for APAAN to BMK conversion.
Mostly barrels with band clamp lids are used, modified to form reaction vessels,
separation vessels or gas scrubbers with the aid of tubing and tube couplings.
The content of these barrels is normally between 150 and 200 litres. They will be
filled about 60 to 80% full with a mixture of APAAN and hydrochloric acid, or the
post-reaction mixture that needs to be separated.
The barrels are heated using 230V electric heating mantles. In various conversion
labs we discovered that the thermostats of these heating mantles were set at 110
C to 120 C. The heating mantles contain a large number of horizontal spiralshaped wires. These wires are covered by synthetic fibres, the mantle. When an
electric current is sent through these wires, heat will develop as a result of the wires
resistance. This heat is then transferred to the covered barrel.
The heat transfer is greatest where the spiralled wires are situated. As the plastic
band clamp lid barrels are not intended to be heated to temperatures of 110 C to
120 C, the plastic will melt or be burned in at wire level, which will decrease the
integrity of the barrel. In a number of conversion labs that used the plastic barrels,
the barrels showed various degrees of damage on the outside. In some cases, an
attempt was made to prevent the barrels from melting by wrapping their outside with
aluminium tape.
The damage to the barrels has major consequences for dismantling and the
transport. If the barrels are still filled with a mixture of hydrochloric acid and APAAN,
and have a total weight of 100 to 150 kg, extreme care must be taken when
dismantling the lab. Transfer of these barrels, whether or not with the aid of
mechanical tools such as a barrel trolley or a fork lift, may lead to leakage or even
total rupture of the barrel. Release of a large quantity of hot or cold APAAN with
hydrochloric acid will result in an enormous uncontrollable emission, with farreaching consequences for the dismantling team, neighbours, the surroundings and
the environment. Also refer to the chapter Risks and dangers.



Burned in barrel

Applied aluminium tape

Modified band clamp lid barrels

Suitable production equipment must be used, depending on the chosen production
method. As indicated earlier, barrels with band clamp lids are frequently used. They
are usually modified to make them suitable for the production method in question.
In many case, holes will be made in the lid and/or the side of the barrel, through
which plastic tubing or piping is inserted. These tubes or pipes are often connected
to a gas scrubber, which ensures that (most of) the fumes developed during the
process are absorbed or neutralized. However, these holes are not always
gasproof, and will cause problems when dismantling, transporting or storing the
content of the lab. In all cases, these barrels will have to be packaged in largersized barrels or bags.



Modified barrels with a connection on top

Barrel with side connections

In one case, an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) was found, containing about 700
liters of APAAN conversion waste. This IBC could not be transported to a location
where the content could be removed because of a hole in its side. The content had
to be poured or pumped into another vessel on site, which caused a major
hydrochloric acid emission in the closed off production space.

IBC containing acidic APAAN conversion waste



Hole in the side

9. Environmental aspects

As described in the previous chapters, the conversion of APAAN requires acids

phosphoric acid, sulphuric acid, or hydrochloric acid and potentially a caustic
substance, such as caustic soda.
The conversion and possibly the separation stage result in a quantity of BMK and a
quantity of waste. The waste can be divided into the following two categories:
- solid waste
- liquid waste
The solid waste may consist of a combination of:
- APAAN residue;
- ammonium salts, such as ammonium phosphate, ammonium sulphate or
ammonium chloride
The liquid waste may consist of a combination of :
- spent acid, either phosphoric, sulphuric or hydrochloric acid
- spent caustic substance, such as caustic soda
- water
- BMK residue
- Liquid used in the gas scrubber, such as caustic soda or a soap solution
- Synthetic contamination, depending on the purity of the raw material and the
manner of conversion
In addition to the solid and liquid waste, there will be an emission of fumes and
gases into the air. This emission will consist of CO2, which is generated during the
conversion process, and acidic fumes. In the case of an uncontrolled chemical
reaction or a fire, it is possible that other fumes and/or gases will be formed,
including CN or HCN: cyanide or hydrogen cyanide.
It has already been established in many conversion labs that alternative manners
of waste disposal were used, in addition to the traditional method: dumping it in
barrels in the environment.
9.1 Dumping waste into the soil

A large part of the waste generated by the conversion process, and potentially the
separation process, is liquid. If we look at the estimated quantity of APAAN that
enters the Netherlands, and the mixing ratios with acid and, in some cases, with
water, it is clear that tens of thousands of litres of liquid waste must be generated. If
this quantity is compared with the discovered waste dumped in barrels, investigated
by the National Dismantling Facility (LFO) and the Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and
Investigation Service (FIOD), it is clear that a large part of the liquid waste is not
dumped in barrels, but is drained off illegally into the soil or the sewerage system.
In a number of cases it was established that both liquid and solid waste were
dumped in the ground. In one conversion lab, solid and liquid waste were dumped


in a hole that had been hacked in the concrete floor. This hole, some 2.5 metres
deep, had been dug right down to groundwater level. The conversion lab was
located in a residential area, and the waste spread through the groundwater stream.

Hole hacked in the floor

Waste dumped at the bottom of the hole and

into the groundwater

It should be clear that this manner of waste disposal has far-reaching

consequences. In such cases, the forensic investigation must be complemented by
an environmental investigation (sample taking) and involvement of the competent
authorities (municipality, province, etc.).
9.2 Discharge into the sewerage system

As most of the waste is liquid, it is relatively easy to get rid of it by pouring it into the
sewer. The discharge of the acidic waste products, in combination with the BMK,
APAAN and other residue, can have far-reaching consequences for the sewerage
system. Especially when discharged in large quantities, the acids can corrode the
concrete sewage pipes. Depending on the distance to the biological sewerage
treatment system and the degree to which they mix with other sewage, the acidic
waste products can also seriously damage the aerobe sewerage treatment, as the
bacteria used in this type of treatment process are susceptible to major acidity
fluctuations.

Discharge into a municipal sewer



In one conversion lab, a large hydrochloric acid emission took place as a result of a
calamity. The fire brigade put up a water curtain to cause the fumes to precipitate.
As a result, the local sewer system was overloaded. As large quantities of waste
had been discharged into the sewer, the flood of water spread the substances by
means of the sewerage system, which led to a great number of stench complaints in
the area around the conversion lab.
9.3 Emissions into the air

During the conversion process, fumes and gases will be released, especially if a
heating device and/or smoking 37% hydrochloric acid are used. Tubing and a gas
scrubber in combination with a general exhaust system (an exhaust with an active
carbon filter) will be used to keep the concentration of harmful and acidic fumes and
gases as low as possible. Part of the acidic or otherwise harmful fumes and gases
will then be neutralized or absorbed. Another part, however, will be emitted into the
surroundings of the conversion lab.
This will lead to stench complaints, especially in residential areas. In addition, the
vegetation in the area can be affected by the acidic fumes, particularly in case of a
calamity. A major emission may take place if leakage from a corrupted barrel occurs
or if the conversion process gets out of hand.



Affected growth



10. Detection

In addition to the standard detection tools used when entering a synthetic or other
drug production location, such as the GasAlert and the Micro-Alert, which monitor
the concentrations of the most prevalent gases such as CO, O2, CH4 (explosion
risk), and optionally measure the NH3 concentration, APAAN conversion labs
require specific other detection tools.
The use of plastic or other reaction vessels without a temperature indicator makes it
impossible to get an idea of the process temperature. This is why an electronic
thermometer or a thermal imaging camera is required. The presence of fumes and
gases should also be considered. Gas detection tubes, such as Drger tubes, or
detectors such as a hydrochloric acid detector, can be used to detect acids. The
use of simple pH paper is another way of measuring the acidity of the fumes or gas
at an emission point.
As it is always possible that HCN hydrocyanic acid gas may have been emitted
as a result of a fire, for instance, a specific HCN detector should also be used.

A high concentration of hydrochloric acid gas





Thermal imaging camera

The temperature of an ongoing conversion process should be measured the
moment the lab is entered. As plastic barrels without temperature indicators are
used, it is essential, both for safety reasons and for the gathering of evidence, that
the temperature of an ongoing process is measured (see chapter 7 Process setup). It is easy to measure and digitally photograph the temperature from a distance
with the aid of an infrared thermometer and a thermal imaging camera, such as the
FLIR-7. The photograph can be used as both risk assessment tool and evidence.
In addition, the temperature can be monitored during the gathering of technical
evidence, which helps determine the moment that the actual dismantling activities
can start. A thermal imaging camera can also help determine the layering and
content level in the plastic barrels, or metal and/or coated reaction vessels. A
thermal imaging camera can also be used to detect temperature differences on the
outside of the production location, for instance in or around outlets or wall
ventilators, etc.

Exhaust outlet at a production location

Thermal image of a 200 litre barrel

Gas detection
As indicated in the introduction, special gas detectors should be used, such as the
HCN detector and optionally the hydrochloric acid detector. Electronic measuring
equipment that monitors continuously is preferable to gas detection tubes that only
measure the gas concentration at the moment of use. This is especially necessary
because the entire investigation will cover a considerable period of time 8 to 20
hours , takes place in different spaces, and involves various activities:



reconnaissance, stabilization, forensic investigation and dismantling. In addition,

there may be differences in the possibility of natural or forced ventilation.
It is also necessary to bear in mind that the local or regional fire brigade will carry
out measurements in case of a calamity. This may involve the emission of a large
quantity of hydrochloric acid in a residential area that is mistaken for smoke and
reported to the emergency services as a fire. The fire brigade and the local or
regional police will usually be the first to arrive at the scene and will carry out the
standard gas detection procedure. As many fire brigades are insufficiently informed
about the conversion processes and the gases and fumes that may be released
during these processes, the standard gas detection equipment will detect little or no
danger, and the all-clear will erroneously be given.
In the past, the all-clear was sometimes given because the gas detector was not
equipped to detect the gases released during the production or conversion process.
Especially as synthetic drug production and precursors are changing rapidly,
developments have to be monitored continuously. New production processes using
new chemicals will entail new dangers. These new dangers require new detection
equipment, adjusted personal protection material, decontamination equipment, and
strategies, not only at the actual production or conversion locations, but also for the
examination of the substances, for instance when taking samples of chemicals and
production waste.

HCN measurement with the GasAlert



11. Personal protection equipment

In addition to the use of gas detection equipment, ample attention must be paid to
the choice of personal protection equipment. The information in the chemistry charts
immediately makes clear that working in conversion labs require extensive personal
protection, such as:
- Protective clothing
- Respiratory protection.
Especially labs where it is not immediately clear which chemicals and/or processes
have been used require a high level of personal protection. After all, the production
market has changed significantly over the past two years, resulting in, among other
things, different types of APAAN conversion labs.

Dead flies in APAAN lab

Protective clothing
The chemistry chart indicates that protective clothing made of PVC or butyl rubber
should be worn when working with the acids described above. In APAAN
conversion labs, these substances are found as raw materials in jerry cans or
barrels, in the reaction mixture, or as part of the waste. The combination of
substances and their respective and joint chemical and physical characteristics are
often unclear.
If the substances are heated to temperatures of approx. 95 100 C, there will be a
particularly high degree of evaporation, and exposure may lead to serious injury.
Exposure could be extensive if a calamity takes place, for instance during the
dismantling process. The scale of the incident depends on the production
temperatures used, the size of the production batch (100 to 150 litres), and the
chemical and physical characteristics of the production mixture.



Unprotected skin

Because of the high concentration of acids and other substances, the use of fully
closed protective gear, such as a chemical suit or a gas suit, is required. The use of
chemical overalls, preferably in combination with taped off gloves and boots is
therefore strongly recommended. The high process temperatures, the potentially
high outside temperatures, the labour intensiveness of the investigation, and the
hermetical nature of the suit (no ventilation), however, will rapidly cause
perspiration. As the acids used in the process will react with moisture, the damp
body parts will be affected first if an overall or suit is not fully hermetically sealed.
The acid will enter the suit through the openings and will first damage the neck,
groin, backs of the knees, armpits, and genital area. Refer to the photograph in
chapter 10: a space with a high concentration of acid requires 100% secure and
hermetically sealed protective gear.

Dismantling in a Splash 2000 chemical suit



Respiratory protection
When working with chemicals, APAAN conversion process mixtures, and the waste
generated in the process, respiratory protection should be used. The chemistry
chart book recommends using a gas mask with canister, at the very least.
In practice, however, the necessity of a gas mask may vary from case to case.
When taking samples of known substances, such as pure product for instance, in a
well-ventilated room, using the required safety equipment, an experienced sample
taker may be able to work without respiratory protection if the exposure period and
the concentration of the substances are limited. It should be noted, however, that if
there is any doubt about the nature of the substance or the experience or training of
the sample taker, no risks should be taken and respiratory protection should be
used. This applies not only in the case of liquids, but also of powders.
In all cases, the APAAN was imported in solid form white to light yellow powder or
chunks packaged in boxes or barrels, usually double-wrapped in plastic bags. As
soon as these bags are opened, a vapour is released to which the Micro-Alert gas
detector responds. Values of > 15 p.p.m. were measured. It is as yet unclear
whether this is possible because HCN is present, or whether a cross-sensitivity of
the gas detector is involved. This is being investigated. Despite the possible crosssensitivity of the detector, respiratory protection must be used in the form of a gas
mask with canister, type ABEK-P2.
In the large APAAN conversion labs, oxygen cylinders were used. Initially, the
cylinders were worn outside the chemical overalls. It soon became clear, however,
that high concentrations, especially of hydrochloric acid, (in case of calamities or
dismantling) corroded the oxygen equipment, which decreased proper functioning.
The masks and cylinders were rejected when re-inspected after use. Examination
by the supplier showed that the equipment had been irreparably damaged at
essential points (low pressure mid pressure high pressure) so that proper
functioning could no longer be guaranteed.



Corroded mask

Corroded external buffer connection

If the use of respiratory protection, such as oxygen masks and cylinders, possibly
with an external buffer connection, is required in an APAAN conversion lab, one
should be aware that this equipment can be corroded by the high acid
concentrations. The only way to prevent this is to wear a chemical suit or a gas suit,
with the cylinders and the mask worn on the inside. This will prevent damage and
simplify decontamination after the event. And decontamination is essential!

Reconnaissance in chemical suits Splash 2000



12. Dismantling

After the forensic and technical evidence has been gathered, the conversion lab
must be dismantled. When dismantling APAAN conversion labs, a number of
specific points deserve special attention, in addition to the standard dismantling
procedures.
Cooling the process mixture removing the heating mantle
After the conversion lab has been entered and the process has been stopped, the
temperature of the process mixture will fall. If a heating mantle is used, which is
wrapped around the plastic barrel, and the temperature of the reaction mixture is at
its maximum (95 C to 100 C), it will take a long time for the reaction mixture to
cool to a temperature suitable for removal or for pumping into another vessel (< 30
C). This is because the heating mantle insulates the content of the barrel, which
means the fall in temperature will be extremely slow.
As soon as the conversion process in the lab is stopped, and the photo and video
registration is complete, the heating mantles must be removed, and wrapped as
contaminated waste after they have been registered (photograph and
documentation of brand, type, serial number, etc.). It is recommended to
subsequently use a thermal imaging camera to photograph the uncovered barrel to
determine the temperature, content and stratification of the mixture.
Production barrels damage and/or instability
When heating mantles are used (temperatures of up to 110 C), the integrity of the
barrels will be affected. If the barrels sustain too much damage, they may leak or
rupture. The application of holes in the side for the insertion of tubes or piping may
have a similar effect. Rupture of the instable barrel due to physical force should
therefore always be considered, especially when moving the barrels. Another thing
to be considered is the fact that not all barrels can be pumped out completely. In
case of solidified APAAN and/or ammonium salt, the barrel will contain a hard, solid
mass that cannot be pumped out. And even if the liquid is pumped out, some acidic
liquid residue will remain. Such barrels should be treated with the utmost care and
should only be removed inside larger-sized barrels.



Transfer of the content of an

IBC

Released hydrochloric acid fumes

Separating waste flows measuring acidity

In case of APAAN conversion in plastic barrels using hydrochloric acid, an
additional plastic barrel is used as a gas scrubber. Tubes connect this barrel with
the reaction vessels, and lead the acidic fumes released into the gas scrubber,
where they are neutralized or absorbed. Water, a caustic soda (NaOH) solution, or
soap can be used as neutralization liquid.















Conversion set-up with two reaction vessels and a gas scrubber in the middle.

When the liquid in the reaction vessels is emptied, a pump is used to pump the
liquid into an IBC. As the conversion requires an acid, the pH value of the mixture
will be low. If this liquid is pumped into the IBC, followed by the content of the gas
scrubber, a violent chemical reaction may take place: an acid-caustic or an acidwater reaction. Therefore it is essential to always measure the pH value of the
content of a vessel before the liquid is pumped out, and to pump the content of the
gas scrubber into a separate vessel or IBC. When pumping out the liquids, the
corrosiveness of the acids should be taken into account. It is recommended for
rinse the pump to be rinsed with a soapy solution each time a barrel has been
emptied. The soapy solution used for this purpose should be stored separately,
away from the chemicals and waste products.
After-reaction of the reaction mixture: determining the degree of conversion
A problem with APAAN to BMK conversion is that it is difficult to determine the
progress of the process. While an illegal producer knows exactly what has been
added when, and whether the conversion process is completed, the investigating
officer can only guess the progress of the conversion process. Though a thermal
image can be obtained using a thermal camera, it gives no indication of the
progress of the process. The degree of stratification of the reaction mixture is a
better progress indicator.
The problem with APAAN is that it solidifies at temperatures below 88 C 92 C. If
the unconverted APAAN solidifies while in the acid, the acid will be incorporated into
the solid mass. Another substance that can incorporate the acid when it solidifies is


ammonium salt. This means that the reaction or evaporation of the acid will
continue after the liquid acid has been pumped out. As a result, gas and fumes can
accumulate in a closed barrel, which may result in overpressure.

Solidified APAAN - ammonium salt with acid and BMK

residue.

Packaging
All contaminated materials should be packaged before transport. Particularly the
components used in the conversion process are often very severely contaminated
with acidic residue. If the plastic barrels used for APAAN conversion have been
emptied, they still contain chemical residue. The problem is that holes have been
made in the lids of these barrels to fit tubing or piping. Especially when dismantling
the larger laboratories, it is infeasible to bring along new lids for all these barrels, as
different sized barrels are used.
As an emergency solution, the top of a plastic band clamp lid barrel can be covered
with a plastic bag. The lid and the band clamp are then placed on top, sealing the
barrel and preventing leakage. Subsequently, the barrel can be placed in a largersize bag, which is then closed.



Airtight sealing of a damaged barrel

Contamination
In most conversion labs, chemicals and waste products are not handled with care.
Floors, walls, and sometimes ceilings may be severely contaminated with these
substances. After all goods, chemicals and waste products related to the conversion
lab have been removed, a severely polluted location will be left behind. In all cases,
the local authorities need to be informed of this pollution. Depending on the rights of
ownership, the location residential or rural area and the degree of pollution, the
competent authorities can take action immediately to limit or clean up the pollution.



APAAN contamination on the floor

APAAN, BMK and acid contamination

It is essential to inform the competent authorities about APAAN, the chemicals

used, and the potential waste products. It has become clear that environmental and
research bureaus have no knowledge of APAAN and the other substances in
question. If possible, it is recommended during the forensic investigation that
samples of environmental pollution (water, soil, sewage) be taken in addition to
samples for the benefit of evidence under the Opium Act and/or the Abuse of
Chemical Substances (Prevention) Act. Such samples should be taken in duplicate:
one for further environmental criminal investigation, and one for the environmental
department of the competent authorities, after permission has been granted by a
public prosecutor or examining judge.
The location must be closed off and sealed before it is abandoned to prevent
visitors from being exposed or contaminated. This can be done by either the local
police or the competent authorities. After completion of the criminal investigation,
the actual responsibility for the location must be transferred to the local authorities.



13. Decontamination

As indicated in chapter 12, most conversion labs are severely contaminated with
APAAN, the acids used, and the waste products generated. This contamination
usually affects the floor. This means that every single person who has been inside
the lab must be decontaminated.
Suspects
Arrested suspects will have their clothes and shoes removed outside the laboratory.
Their clothes and shoes must be sealed in airtight bags for two reasons:
Clothing and shoes serve as evidence: they contain traces of the person who
wore them and of the products, chemicals and waste present in the
conversion lab;
Contamination of police vehicles and buildings should be prevented. APAAN,
and especially BMK, has a pungent odour, especially at higher temperatures.
In addition, contamination of police vehicles and buildings may lead to high
decontamination or replacement costs.
Upon arrival at the location where they will be remanded in custody, the suspects
must shower immediately under supervision. Because of the inevitable exposure in
the conversion lab, the suspect must undergo a medical check up and be
monitored.
Arrest team arrest unit patrol officers
The persons who have been inside the lab to arrest suspects or for investigation
purposes (for instance during a cannabis clear out) must also be contaminated.
Their contamination will usually be limited to their shoes, and sometimes part of
their clothing. Shoe soles with deep grooves will carry the sticky APAAN residue,
and any acids or waste present, and will spread these further.
Forensic staff fire brigade LFO staff
The persons entering the conversion lab as part of their duties such as
reconnaissance, stabilization, technical evidence gathering, and dismantling will
certainly be contaminated, as they have physical contact with chemicals and
equipment. The contamination risk is especially high in the case of a calamity.
Despite the use of personal protection, there will always be a risk of exposure. This
is why a decontamination unit must be installed before the conversion lab is
entered.
In the event of an emergency, such as a fire or calamity, it may be impossible to
wait for a decontamination unit to be installed. In these cases, emergency
decontamination must be applied, using large quantities of water. At a
decontamination unit, the chemicals and waste products are best removed using
water and soap (Extran MA-01).
It is recommended for a security advisor to be appointed at such production
locations.



Decontamination unit

All materials used, such as protective clothing, respiratory protection, gas detectors,
sample taking materials, and other equipment like pumps, must be considered
contaminated, and must be packaged or decontaminated as such.



14. Transport and storage

After dismantling and packaging, all equipment, chemicals and waste products must
be transported to a storage location. If the transport takes place in a lorry without
cargo space ventilation, it should be considered that fumes or gases may be still be
released as a result of an ongoing chemical reaction. This means exposure may
take place when the lorry is opened.
At the storage location, the equipment, chemicals and waste products removed
must be stored in a suitable place, with due care for the possible ongoing chemical
reaction of the substance mixtures. In case of one dismantled APAAN lab, the
reaction of the mixture was still ongoing after three days, with gas and fumes rising
from the storage barrels. Particularly if concentrated 37% hydrochloric acid has
been used, the fumes will react with moisture in the air, which will produce a white
mist. Such an emission at a hazardous waste deposit location is risky and may
cause a calamity. Therefore, it is recommended that the deposit manager be
informed of the content of the barrels and the possibility of an ongoing reaction.
Because of the process specific and chemical characteristics of the substances and
waste products, this information should be provided by the team that dismantled the
laboratory in question.

Ongoing reaction at a hazardous waste deposit location





15. References

Netherlands Forensic Institute narcotics department; NFI information

bulletin on APAAN
Chemistry charts book
LFO photograph database
Police Rotterdam Rijnmond

Driebergen, 12 December 2012

A.J. van Rijn
[email protected] +31-621828310

With thanks to the following consultants:

National Dismantling Facility (LFO)
M. Zomer
06-46236390 [email protected]
J. Voogt
06-46236388 [email protected]
R. de Vrij
06-46236389 [email protected]
Central number 24-7 - LFO 034-3535925
Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI)
J. van den Berg and J. Hulshof
Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD)
J. Beekx
National Public Prosecutors Office
C. van Spierenburg





16. Annex

Article published in Dutch daily De Telegraaf

Explosive labs
A second fireworks disaster like the one that happened in Enschede, the
Netherlands, a few years ago, is one of the most gloomy scenarios Cees van
Spierenburg can imagine. As National Public Prosecutor for the combat of synthetic
drugs, he sounds the alarm about criminals taking exorbitant risks by setting up
drugs labs in city centres. This phenomenon is observed with increasing frequency.

Mr. C. van Spierenburg

Most of them just mess about as complete amateurs. Those people do not even
consider what might happen if things go wrong. If running a drugs lab in a
residential area decreases the risk of getting caught, that is where theyll go.
Unfortunately, the Enschede doom scenario very nearly became reality in Tilburg at
the end of August. The police arrested three Tilburg citizens who accidentally
revealed themselves as a result of a mistake in the BMK production process. BMK
is the raw material for amphetamine. The white smoke that escaped from a number
of sheds due to a little mistake turned out to be a true hydrochloric acid cloud. It
was a miracle that no one got hurt. Things might have gone horribly wrong.
Hydrochloric acid is terrible stuff.
According to the 64-year-old Van Spierenburg, the increasing safety risks go hand
in hand with the criminals taking a new approach. Instead of the drugs themselves,
they now manufacture the raw materials for drugs, using APAAN, a substance that
was until recently unknown in the Netherlands. This powdered substance is easily
available, but dangerous to work with. Strong acids are needed for the conversion
of APAAN to BMK.
Despite the risks, the criminals in question do not hesitate a second to apply the
new strategy as much as they can. There was a shortage of the raw material BMK
in the Netherlands, as the main supplier of the substance, China, prohibited
production of and trade in this liquid. In our country, the substance had already
been banned for a while, so criminals are now trying to bend the rules and remedy
the shortage by producing the substance themselves. According to Van
Spierenburg, this is a gap in the drugs market, given the potential financial profits.


A kilo of APAAN costs 30 euros and will yield 700 euros worth of BMK. It is a new
method that is hard to beat.

Seizure
A ban on APAAN would be a huge step forward in the combat of synthetic drugs. If
Van Spierenburg has his way, this will definitely happen. The Public Prosecution
Service already acts in accordance with this wish. Preparing the production of
drugs is forbidden by law. As it is so easy to produce BMK from APAAN, I am of the
opinion that possession of APAAN should be punishable. That is why we are
seizing the stuff. A major seizure was made earlier this year when a batch of 1000
kg of APAAN was seized at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
But Van Spierenburg is also aware of the fact that as long as clear legislation is not
in place, he will continue to cross swords with criminals that try to find the loopholes
in the law. Our approach to BMK turned out to be successful, which is why
criminals try to steal a march on us by finding these loopholes. They now do this by
importing APAAN, a new substance. Despite everything, the combat of synthetic
drugs continues unabated. At international drugs conferences we indicate that
APAAN is causing major problems in the Netherlands. Hopefully, other countries
will understand and ban the substance. But this will take time.



The National Dismantling Facility

The National Dismantling Facility (Landelijke Faciliteit Ondersteuning Ontmantelen:

LFO) springs into action whenever a synthetic drugs laboratory is detected, 24
hours a day, seven days a week. And this is of course where they got the name.
But they are also deployed more widely: if chemical waste has been dumped, or
after an explosion on a tanker, a plane crash, or an accident involving a tank
truck Whenever chemical substances form a threat, the LFO is called to the
scene.
The LFO was set up in 2001, in response to political pressure, as part of the
programme Conspiring against XTC. The LFO swiftly gained acceptance as an
obvious multidisciplinary partner in the fight against drug-related serious organized
crime as well as within the security process within the Netherlands twenty-five
security regions.
Initially, the LFO focused mainly on the safety aspects of investigations involving the
dismantling of MDMA (XTC) and amphetamine-type laboratories. Partly as a result
of changes in the market, their domain has since expanded. In addition to
investigating the traditional products, nowadays they conduct investigations into
the illegal manufacturing of precursors (APAAN and safrole conversion), synthetic
cannabinoids, designer drugs, medicinal products (e.g. Viagra), methamphetamine,
synthetic explosives etc, and also dismantle cocaine extraction and heroin cutting
laboratories. The number of investigations has also increased rapidly. In 2011, the
LFO was called in to over 360 incidents. In 2012, this number has risen to over 500,
particularly due to the explosive growth of APAAN conversion labs and related
import, storage, and dumping.



Large mobile amphetamine laboratory

Large dump site

In addition to the expansion of the LFOs work domain, we have seen drug labs
becoming more and more professional, both in terms of capacity and yield.
Laboratories of industrial dimensions are often found, making use of industrial or
purpose-built professional equipment that uses electronics and applications from
the pharmaceutical and chemical industry. This leads to high-risk, complex and
lengthy investigations calling for both chemical and process-technological or
mechanical engineering expertise.

Industrial scale manufacturing of MDMA

The LFOs task is to provide forensic support for activities at crime scenes that
involve very high safety or chemical or CBRNE-related risks. The LFO dismantles


drugs production units and related storage and dumping locations and conducts
forensic and safety investigations at crime scenes that may have CBRNE
contamination.
The LFOs in-depth specialism the ability to conduct a CBRNE8 investigation within
2 hours under all high-risk circumstances is frequently used within investigations
throughout the Netherlands. Partly because it has been trained and is equipped to
act at the highest safety levels, including hazmat suit, compressed air, and highquality detection and identification instruments, the LFO shares in the responsibility
for the forensic investigations in the hot zone of CBRNe incidents. The LFO also
provides safety advisors for high-risk investigations, and has four fire-brigade
consultants on hazardous substances available for secondment, or on call at all
times.

Apart from ascertaining the truth about the circumstances of a possible criminal
offence, investigations also focus on the intelligence aspects of these or other
international, national, or regional investigations. If LFO experts structurally carry
out or contribute to such investigations, they can log, process, and share visual
similarities and information. In this way, intelligence is collected that can help direct
the course of the investigation, and insight is provided into current trends and
developments.
In some cases, the LFOs expertise is perceptibly present during dismantling
operations for the National Crime Squad, regional police forces, or other
investigative services. In other cases, the LFO expertise may be deployed covertly
in the event of secret collaboration with various surveillance teams and arrest
squads. The senior LFO experts extensive knowledge and experience, and the
availability of unique, specialized, high-quality detection and identification devices
are exceptional both within the Netherlands and further afield, and these features
have been proven to possess significant added value for many investigations which
are aimed at combating drugs, precursors, essential chemicals, and means of
production.


CBRNE:



chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosives

On the spot identification of chemicals

Identification new production equipment +

technical drawing for report for court

Due to the swiftly evolving market and the increasing risks, the LFO in addition to
its investigative activities has a role to play in education and training. For this
purpose, the LFO uses a real-time training centre in Zaandam, the Netherlands,
unparalleled anywhere in the world. In this laboratory, all the existing production
processes have been set up using production equipment that has been seized and
made available by the Public Prosecution Service. Depending on the target group
and the learning objectives, very realistic training courses can be given, involving
booby-traps, fire, smoke, gas, and physical violence. The existing production setups are updated frequently. The LFO also has various mobile laboratories that can
be set up in simulated crime scenes at geographically diverse locations. Frequent
participants in the courses include fire-brigade specialists, arrest squads and
counterterrorism units, detectives, forensic experts, members of the Public
Prosecution Service and the judiciary, and also international participants. The LFO
members also frequently act as guest speakers or key-note instructors at many
international conferences and training courses.



Combined training LFO Counter terrorism

unit

Dismantling

Innovation is another crucial task for the LFO. In the context of the expansion of
tasks, the growing complexity of investigations, and the increasing influence of
technology in investigations, the LFO organises and facilitates various innovation
projects. These include developing a field test for the extraction of cocaine from
synthetic sources and the use of SPME fibres (Solid Phase Micro Extraction) for the
detection of precursors, for example. The development of knowledge documents or
teaching modules, such as the present APAAN document, is also one of the LFOs
tasks.
The LFO will continue to specialize and develop in an innovative way within the
Central Unit of the new Dutch National Police, which will come into being on 1
January 2013. And of course it will continue to cooperate closely with its national
and international partners. This development will take place in the context of the
swift-growing and ever more complex national and international market of synthetic
drugs and other drugs, CBRNe and chemical incidents.
For any further information, please contact: [email protected]