The unrivaled, definitive reference for almost 40 years, this classic work on explosives is now in its seventh, completely revised and updated edition. Some 500 monographic entries, arranged alphabetically, consider the physicochemical properties, production methods, and safe applications of over 120 explosive chemicals. In addition, 70 fuels, additives, and oxidizing agents are discussed as well as the corresponding test methods. Trade, company, and military short names are provided for many of the materials listed, while further key features include a combined index and glossary with terms and abbreviations in English, French, and German, as well as conversion tables and many literature references. Finally, this indispensable source also contains safety data and transport regulations.

Revised and expanded to reflect new developments in the field, this book outlines the basic principles required to understand the chemical processes of explosives. The Chemistry of Explosives provides an overview of the history of explosives, taking the reader to future developments. The text on the classification of explosive materials contains much data on the physical parameters of primary and secondary explosives. The explosive processes of deflagration and detonation, including the theory of ‘hotspots’ for the detonation process, are introduced and many examples are provided in the detailed description on the thermochemistry of explosives. New material includes coverage of the latest explosive compositions, such as high temperature explosives, nitrocubanes, energetic polymers, plasticizers and insensitive munitions (IM). This concise, readable book is ideal for students and new graduates with no previous knowledge of explosive materials. With detailed information on a vast range of explosives in tabular form and an extensive bibliography, this book will also be useful to anyone needing succinct information on the subject.