UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN River Falls

Risk Management

True Explosive Chemical Safety

Chemical SetShock sensitive explosive chemicals can spontaneously release large amounts of thermal and physical energy under ambient conditions or when subject to shock (called "initiation") through bumping, friction, agitation, heating or the like.  True explosives yield a detonation or deflagration when initiated.  When this happens in an uncontrolled or unexpected circumstance, it can result in serious bodily harm or property damage.

Highly Hazardous:

  • cetyleic compounds (especially polyacetylenes, haloacetylene)
  • Heavy metal salts or acetylenes (copper, silver, and mercury salts are particularly sensitive)
  • Metal Picrates

Most Commonly Used Chemicals:

  • Fulminates
  • Perchlorate salts
  • Peroxides
  • Polynitroaromatic compounds
  • Phenols
  • Amines

NOTE: This list is a representation of commonly used shock sensitive explosive compounds.  However, it is not inclusive of all shock sensitive compounds.  It is good practice to consult the Material Safety Data Sheet and appropriate references for the safe handling of any chemical product.

Contact Us

Risk Management
Jeanna Hayes
Email: risk@uwrf.edu
Phone: 715-425-3344
25H North Hall

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