PETN explosives stand for pentaerythritol tetranitrate, which is a highly explosive organic compound. This particular explosive belongs to the same chemical explosive family as nitroglycerin and nitrocellulose.
The compound is prepared by reacting pentaerythritol and nitric acid. Pentaerythritol is an alcohol that is traditionally used in paints and varnishes. Once combined, the solution is chilled to precipitate the PETN. The PETN is then filtered out, washed, dried, and recystallized into a colorless crystalline material that can be stored and shipped as a mixture with water and alcohol.
History of the PETN Explosive
PETN was first developed in 1894 by a German explosives German manufacturer. A new and improved form was developed in 1912 and used by the German military in World War 1.
Uses for PETN Explosive Products
PETN is a valued explosive that has been used by military and civilians alike for its shattering force. It can be used in detonators, blasting caps, and a detonating fuse called Primacord.
The Primacord detonating cord can be used to set off a series of detonations from one explosive charge to another. These particular cords are primarily used as trunklines or downlines in operations including mining, quarrying and construction applications.
In the military, PETN is often combined with trinitrotoluene or TNT to create a military grade high explosive known as pentolite. This is used in grenades, artillery, projectiles as well as shaped-charge warheads. Such warheads include ones that were launched by the older model bazooka antitank weapons of World War II.
The solution can also be mixed with a very powerful compound called RDX, which is an appropriate solvent. When this occurs, PETN can form a plastic explosive mix called Semtex. Alone or as a mix, PETN has the ability to be molded or fitted into various size packages making it difficult to detect.
Purchasing PETN Explosive Products
Purchasing PETN explosive products for commercial and military operations can be done so through explosive engineering and manufacturing companies. Company websites may offer in depth descriptions of products and contact information for connecting with representatives to go through the purchasing process. Storing, selling and shipping of such explosives should only be done by qualified, licensed professionals.