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Tetryl

Highly sensitive secondary explosive used as a booster charge.

tetranitromethane

Tetryl is an explosive chemical compound with the formula C₇H₅N₃O₈. It is a highly sensitive secondary explosive commonly used in military applications, particularly as a booster charge to initiate less sensitive high explosives such as RDX. Due to its extreme sensitivity to shock, friction, and heat, tetryl requires careful handling.

Etymology

Tetryl is a portmanteau of 'tetra' and 'nitrile'.

Explain Like I’m 5

Tetryl is a powerful explosive often used in small amounts to help detonate larger explosives, like a tiny spark that sets off a bigger firework.

Fun Facts

Tetryl was first synthesized in 1883
It is more sensitive than nitroglycerin
Its sensitivity makes it dangerous to handle

FAQ

What is tetryl? It's a highly sensitive explosive
What is it used for? It acts as a booster charge to detonate other explosives
Is it stable? No, it's very sensitive and prone to accidental detonation

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

explosive secondary explosive

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

booster charge military applications

Indexes

chemical compound explosive material military use

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