James T. Thurman has worked in the explosives field for more than 30 years, first as a U.S. Army bomb disposal technician and then as a special agent with the FBI. He continues to lecture and provide training on the methods of bomb scene investigation and explosives avoidance to domestic and international training schools and audiences. He is currently a professor at the Eastern Kentucky University, teaching a unique academic program on fire, arson, and explosion investigation. He holds a BA from Eastern Kentucky University and an MS Degree in Forensic Science from the George Washington University.

• DedicationAcknowledgementsAbout the AuthorForwardIntroductionChapter One: Explosion Theory and DynamicsChapter Two: Identification and Recognition of Commercial, Improvised, and Military ExplosivesChapter Three: Improvised Explosive Device Components: Pre- and Post-Blast IdentificationChapter Four: Investigation of the Explosion Scene and Collection of EvidenceChapter Five: Bomb Scene Investigator and Weapons of Mass DestructionChapter Six: Introduction to the Identification of Military OrdnanceChapter Seven: Capabilities of the Forensic Laboratory: Reading the Bomber’s SignatureChapter Eight: Tactical Post-Blast InvestigationAppendix A: Chart of Explosive ProductsAppendix B: United States and Foreign Names of Explosives, Part I and Part IIAppendix C: Access Control LogAppendix D: Guidelines for the Prevention of Contamination of Explosives EvidenceAppendix E: Personnel Resources for the Bomb Scene InvestigationAppendix F: Supplies and Equipment for the Bomb Scene InvestigationAppendix G: Administrative WorksheetAppendix H: Narrative DescriptionAppendix I: Evidence Recovery LogAppendix J: Latent Print Lift LogAppendix K: Photographic LogAppendix L: Diagram LogAppendix M: Explosive Residue Swabbing InstructionsAppendix N: Standard Military Ordnance Color Coding SystemAppendix O: Bomb Threat Stand-Off DistancesAppendix P: Table of Bioterrorism Agent PropertiesAppendix Q: Table of Chemical Agent PropertiesGlossaryIndex

"Tom Thurman’s Practical Bomb Scene Investigation provides basic and practical knowledge, enhanced by case studies, his extensive personal experiences and lessons learned. The third edition is the most updated, detailed and relevant guide for post blast investigations." – Chief Superintendent (ret.) Michael Cardash, Former Deputy Head of Israel National Police Bomb Disposal Division "Practical Bomb Scene Investigation has become a standard in the field for a reason. James T. Thurman writes from the unique perspective of a practitioner who has worked some of the highest profile bombing cases in US history. He brings a unique voice which blends technical explanations applied through a pragmatic perspective. This text is a valuable reference for academics and responders alike." – Dr. Kirk Yeager"Professor Thurman’s book is an essential guide for explosion investigators. It is comprehensive, detailed and a fabulous reference guide. No explosion scene investigator should be without it." – Richard Hahn, FBI Retired, Crime Scene Manager at Oklahoma City Bombing"Practical Bomb Scene Investigation, Second Edition is currently required reading for the IABTI Certified International Post Blast Investigators (CIPBI) Certification Program. This third edition will be a welcome addition. I am impressed with the attention to detail and increased references and this text is a must for bomb technicians and investigators. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is looking to expand their knowledge in the explosive field and post blast investigations." – Jake Bohi CIPBI, Phoenix Police Department Bomb Squad (Retired), International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators Assistant International Director, Professional Certification Program Chairman