Methenamine, identified from its infrared spectrum, is most commonly used as a urinary antibacterial, but its other applications include metal detection and fuel tablets for camping stoves. In this case, the methenamine was in the form of a pure, white, crystalline powder that burned with a smokeless flame; its purpose was probably to support combustion and keep the fire burning longer. Another possible use for the chemical is in the preparation of RDX, the high explosive also known as cyclonite. 1 figure and 6 references (Author abstract modified)