Definition

Noun: A type of high explosive designed to inflict damage primarily through its blast effect (rapid expansion of gases) on a target it is in contact with or near, rather than through fragmentation or shaped charge effects. It is characterized by its ability to shatter or destroy structures and materials.

Usage

This is a technical term used primarily in military, demolition, and mining contexts to classify explosives based on their function. It describes the explosive's purpose and destructive mechanism.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The engineers used a bursting explosive to demolish the concrete bridge support.
  • The shell was filled with a powerful bursting explosive designed to destroy bunkers.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast with other types like "propelling explosives" (which produce gas for propulsion) or "disruptive explosives."
• It can be part of technical specifications for munitions, e.g., "The warhead contains 2 kg of a bursting explosive."

Variants and Related Words

• High Explosive (HE): A broader category of explosives that detonate rapidly. A bursting explosive is a type of high explosive.
• Blasting Agent: A less sensitive material often used for similar bursting/demolition purposes in mining.
• Demolition Charge: A practical application term for a device containing a bursting explosive.

Synonyms

• Blasting Explosive
• Disruptive Explosive (in some technical contexts)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Bursting Charge: The specific quantity of bursting explosive within a weapon or device.
  • The artillery shell's bursting charge was made of TNT.

Noun

1. a high explosive that is used to damage the target that is under attack