Smokeless Propellant
Definition
A low explosive based on nitrocellulose (single-base), nitrocellulose plus nitroglycerin (double-base), or nitrocellulose plus nitroglycerin plus nitroguanidine (triple-base). Used as firearm propellant and identifiable in post-blast debris by GC-MS nitro-compound profiling.
- Explosive class
- Low explosive
- Single-base
- Nitrocellulose
- Double-base
- Nitrocellulose plus nitroglycerin
- Triple-base
- Adds nitroguanidine
Common questions
How is smokeless propellant identified in post-blast debris?+
Analysts profile the residual nitro-compounds by GC-MS, since single, double, and triple-base formulations leave characteristic combinations that point to the propellant type used.
Why is it called smokeless if it still leaves residue?+
The name refers to the much lower visible smoke produced during firing compared with older black powder propellants, not to the absence of chemical residue, which remains detectable.
Related terms
- Brisance
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- Chapman-Jouguet Velocity
- The minimum stable detonation velocity for a given explosive at a specific density, a thermodynamic property of the explosive composition. Used to...
- Deflagration
- A subsonic combustion front propagating through an explosive by thermal conduction. Characteristic of low explosives such as black powder and smokeless powder;...
- Detonation
- A supersonic shock wave coupled to a chemical reaction front, propagating through a high explosive at velocities between approximately 4,500 and 9,100...
- Oxygen Balance
- A percentage expressing the surplus or deficit of oxygen in an explosive molecule relative to stoichiometric complete oxidation of carbon to CO2...
- PESO (India)
- Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation, the Indian government body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry that administers the Explosives Act 1884...
- Primary Explosive
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- Secondary Explosive
- A high explosive insensitive to normal friction, spark, and percussion; requires a primary explosive shock or blasting cap to initiate detonation. Examples:...
- UN Hazard Class 1
- The United Nations dangerous-goods classification for explosives. Divided into six divisions (1.1 through 1.6) based on mass explosion hazard, projection hazard, and...