Website Glossary

Piezoelectric describes a material property where mechanical stress (pressure or strain) generates an electric charge, and conversely, an applied electric field induces mechanical deformation. This property is utilised in various applications, including sensors and actuators, and notably, in explosive technology, where piezoelectric materials can be used in detonators and other initiation systems.

A type of malleable high-explosive material, plastic explosives are composed of a mixture of explosive compounds, plasticisers, and stabilisers, resulting in a pliable and versatile substance. Unlike traditional explosives, which are often granular or powdery, plastic explosives are shaped and formed to fit specific needs, such as fitting into tight spaces or sticking to surfaces. Due to their flexibility and stability, plastic explosives are used in various military applications, such as demolition, sabotage, and explosive ordnance disposal. They are also used in civilian contexts for construction, mining, and controlled demolitions. Notable examples of plastic explosives include C-4 and Semtex.

A primary explosive is a highly sensitive material easily initiated by a relatively small amount of energy, such as heat, shock, or friction. It is typically used to initiate a larger, less sensitive secondary explosive.

Pyrotechnics is the science and art of using self-contained, self-sustaining exothermic chemical reactions to produce heat, light, gas, sound, and/or smoke for various effects and applications.