"One of the chemicals, nitromethane, is used as a fuel for model aeroplane engines."

"A similar alternative, nitroethane, is less well known but equally as effective. There are fewer restrictions on obtaining and transporting this chemical. "

"A fourth candidate, methyl nitrate, is unusual in that it will explode as soon as it is combined with another substance. It does not need to be ignited by a detonator device."

ETD or ETP will detect these. X-ray will not.

"It can reliably be caused to detonate by mixing it with ingredient X," said Dr Alford. He was not willing to reveal the name of the activating chemical."

Putz. Ingredient X isn't going to remain a mystery for long. Just come out and say it so we can continue to evaluate the validity of these claims.

"Liquid explosives would not necessarily be picked up by "sniffer" type security scanners if placed in carefully sealed and cleaned containers, said Dr Alford."

ETD, Dr. Alford. And ETP will still pick up less-than-carefully packed nitrates.