Räjähdysherkkä

Räjähdysherkkä is an adjective in Finnish used to describe a substance or mixture that is easily ignited or detonated by relatively small stimuli, such as mechanical shock, friction, heat, or impact. It is commonly applied in contexts involving energetic materials, pyrotechnics, mining, and safety regulations to indicate high initiation sensitivity. In practice, a räjähdysherkkä substance is considered hazardous because a minor trigger can lead to detonation rather than a slow burn.

Sensitivity is not a single property but depends on many factors, including chemical composition, physical form, confinement, temperature, and contaminants. Substances described as räjähdysherkkä are often discussed alongside other safety categories such as primary or highly sensitive explosives; however, exact classifications vary by jurisdiction and regulatory framework. The term is qualitative and used together with more formal descriptors in safety literature.

In handling and regulation, räjähdysherkkä materials require strict controls to prevent accidental initiation. This includes specialized storage and transport under hazardous materials rules and the involvement of trained personnel. Public safety guidance emphasizes avoiding friction, impact, heat, or electrostatic discharge near such materials and ensuring appropriate protective equipment and procedures.

The term is primarily used in Finnish technical and regulatory contexts and is widely understood by professionals dealing with energetic materials, safety engineering, and related fields.