Chapter 12 - Arson & Explosives

Containment

particularly used when the main charge is a low explosive

Exothermic

reactions that give off heat

Fire Point

the temp at which there is enough heat to ease combustion even in the absence of a source of ignition

Flaming Combustion

visible flame

Flash Point

the lowest temp at which a liquid produces enough vapor to be ignited by a small flame

Glowing Combustion

glowing coals

Initiator

primary function is to get the explosive event started, spark or fuse

Low Explosive

materials that burn rapidly & will explode only when contained

Primary High Explosive

the most treacherous material and are used as primers or detonators

Secondary High Explosive

containment may be used to intensify or direct the explosion, but is not necessary for it to occur