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Pentolite is a high-explosive mixture primarily composed of pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) and trinitrotoluene (TNT). PETN itself is a powerful organic explosive, chemically similar to nitroglycerin. It is synthesized by reacting pentaerythritol with nitric acid.12

PETN is known for its shattering force and efficiency, making it valuable in both military and civilian applications. It is used in detonators, blasting caps, and detonating fuses like Primacord. Pentolite, the mixture of PETN and TNT, is used in military ordnance such as grenades and artillery projectiles. PETN is also a component of Semtex, a plastic explosive mixture.21

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