Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to the shattering power of an explosive: Describes the property of an explosive material that causes it to shatter or fragment its target upon detonation, as opposed to merely pushing it aside. It emphasizes the blast effect and destructive fragmentation.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The engineers evaluated the brisant effect of the new compound on reinforced concrete.
  • A high brisant explosive is required for demolishing this steel structure.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: The term is primarily used in military, mining, demolition, and explosives engineering contexts to classify and compare the destructive characteristics of different explosives.
  • The choice between a low and high brisant explosive depends on whether you need to heave earth or shatter rock.

Variants and Related Words

• Brisance (n): The noun form referring to the shattering capability or the crushing, fragmenting effect of an explosive.
  • The brisance of TNT is greater than that of black powder.

Synonyms

• Shattering
• High-explosive (when referring to a type with this property)
• Fragmenting

Antonyms

• Low-explosive (which deflagrates rather than detonates, producing a heaving effect)
• Propellant (designed to propel, not shatter)

Adjective

1. of or relating to the power (the shattering effect) of an explosive