Detonator

A detonator is a device designed to initiate the detonation of an explosive material, producing a rapid and controlled release of energy. Detonators are used to activate primary explosive charges and, in turn, to initiate larger blasting systems in mining, construction, demolition, and military applications. They are designed to provide reliable initiation while preventing accidental detonation during handling, transport, or storage.

Detonators come in several families that differ in how they deliver the initiation impulse. Electrical detonators rely on an electric signal to generate heat or a shock that starts the detonating material. Non-electrical detonators use a mechanical or chemical trigger, such as a fuse or a shock-tube system, to transmit the initiation. Electronic detonators use microcircuits to control timing and sequencing with high precision and may be wired or wireless. Time-delay detonators enable staged initiation to control the blast pattern, while instant or near-instant detonators produce simultaneous initiation of multiple charges.

Common terms associated with detonators include blasting caps and primers. A blasting cap is a small initiator used to detonate a larger secondary charge, whereas a primer refers to the initiating component within ammunition. In modern practice, the term detonator is often used for the initiating device in electronic or precision blasting systems.

Safety and regulation are central to detonator use. Handling, storage, transport, and deployment are tightly controlled by laws and standards, and activity is typically conducted only by licensed professionals to prevent accidents and misuse.