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How do detonating explosives differ from deflagrating explosives?
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explosive
A coal miner loading a drill hole with a water gel explosive called Tovex.
Chemical explosives are categorized into two primary types based on their reaction characteristics: detonating (high) explosives and deflagrating (low) explosives.1
Key Differences
- Mechanism of Reaction: Detonating explosives are defined by extremely rapid decomposition, where a shock wave travels through the material at supersonic speeds, displacing molecules instantly. In contrast, deflagrating explosives involve fast burning, where the reaction propagates through the material at subsonic speeds.123
- Pressure and Force: Detonating explosives, such as TNT and dynamite, generate high pressure and violent, instantaneous explosions. Deflagrating explosives, such as black and smokeless powders, produce relatively lower pressures.12
- Conditions: While these categories are distinct, some deflagrating explosives can be forced to detonate under specific conditions, such as high levels of confinement or the use of large quantities.1
Detonating explosives are further subdivided into primary explosives, which ignite via heat or impact, and secondary explosives, which typically require a detonator to initiate.1