Yes, this is for work. We have design requirements that the safes we
install must also be able to destroy the contents. 

I figure if you have reached the point where you must destroy the
contents of the safe you probably don't care much for the surrounding
area. However, the surrounding area is a mobile environment and if the
thermite grenade is detonated it will most likely destroy the vehicle
once it burns through the safe. I mean I guess this is more of an
operational scenario than anything. 

I like some of the other ideas you guys have come up with. I was
figuring a combination of methods could also be applied. Such as
destroying the paper with one method and the electronic devices with
another, however, our customer has not been very forthcoming with the
types of documents that will be stored in the safe (Justifiably). 

I have tried to search the net but believe it or not there is a great
amount of information regarding safe destruction other than some videos
I saw on you tube using a thermite grenade and a tank. I am pretty sure
the tank idea is out the window.

Rachid Chaoua
-----Original Message-----
From: piclist-bounces@mit.edu [mailto:piclist-bounces@mit.edu] On Behalf
Of Apptech
Sent: Monday, March 17, 2008 10:11 AM
To: Microcontroller discussion list - Public.
Subject: Re: [EE] - Safe Self-Destruct

> I was curious if anyone out there is aware of the 
> different methods one
> might employ to destroy the contents of a safe (electronic 
> devices and
> sensitive documents). The only method I have come across 
> is using a
> thermite grenade. However, this destroy the surrounding 
> area of the safe
> as well and is undesirable. Anybody got any ideas?

A bit more information about the intended application may 
facilitate a less general response than may otherwise be 
forthcoming :-).

Is this your safe?
Is someone paying you to do this?
Do you need a fast car and a clear escape route immediately 
after the destruction.
Do you have a double O rating?
... ?

Shaped charge can do quite well. Noisy.

Thermite on top face can have a fireproof covering for 
relatively minor exacerbation of secondary thermal 
consequences. Firebrick. Sodium silicate constructs. 
Asbestos blankets (don't breath). Other. Not a bad choice.

If you are trying to nuke the insides of a safe why would 
you not want to nuke their office as well ? :-).

How real a safe?
Drill and fill - water/acid / ...

What is the surface it rests on made of?
Can you heat it with flame etc.
Induction heating?
Thermal Lance attack?

How long do you have?
How easy is access?

Is there some country where this is not a felony?
How can I be sure of never going there?
Is this covered by ITAR / Patriot's Act / 45 Clear / 
Guantanamo vacation / Lear Jet Rendition getaway holiday?
Is this for an Easter surprise?
For your wife?
Or is it a late thought for St Patrick's day?



        Russell

-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist
-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist