PETN
PETN (pentaerythritoltetranitrate) is a secondary explosive which is in the form of white color hexagonal crystals. It is primarily used as the explosive core load of detonation cord or as an ingredient of composite explosives & a base charge in blasting caps. It is rarely used as a high explosive independently. Cast primers of PETN are also supplied as shaped charges.
SAFETY
-
Dropping or igniting it will typically not cause an explosion as it isn't as sensitive as primary explosives. But it is more sensitive to shock and friction as compared to other secondary explosives
-
Deflagration to detonation transition can occur under certain conditions
-
PETN is the least stable of the common military explosives
ADVANTAGES
-
Can be stored without significant deterioration for longer than nitroglycerin or nitrocellulose
-
Easier ignition directly with cap and detonating cord
-
The paste is soft and easy to shape