lowexplosive

Low explosive is a category of energetic materials that burn rapidly (deflagrate) rather than detonate under ordinary conditions. The term contrasts with high explosives, which produce a detonation wave and shock pressure. Low explosives typically generate expanding gases at subsonic speeds, and may detonate only under confinement, extreme heating, or strong initiation. In practice, they are designed to release energy primarily through rapid combustion rather than a detonation front.

Common examples include historical black powder and modern smokeless powders used as propellants in firearms and artillery, as well as various pyrotechnic compositions. Black powder is a notable early low explosive; smokeless powders burn more cleanly and efficiently and are widely used as firearm propellants. These materials are chosen for energy release rates that produce gas expansion rather than instantaneous shock.

Applications and safety: Low explosives are used as propellants in weapons, propulsion systems and various fireworks. They rely on rapid combustion to generate pressure from gas production. Safety concerns include sensitivity to heat, friction, static electricity, and confinement; handling, storage, and transport are subject to strict regulatory controls. Improper heating or confinement can lead to unintended ignition or hazardous results.

Notes: The boundary between low and high explosives is historical, and some materials can detonate if highly confined or initiated. The term remains common in older manuals and regulatory contexts, though modern classification often emphasizes propellants, pyrotechnics, or energetic materials rather than a simple low/high dichotomy.