Explosives may be classified on how sensitive they are to triggering energy. A stable explosive may require more energy to detonate but it is safer to handle and cheaper to use.
Classes of explosives:
(1) primary
(2) secondary
(3) tertiary
Parameter
Primary
Secondary
Tertiary
triggering energy
very sensitive
less sensitive
least sensitive
safety
low
moderate
high
cost of use
high
moderate
low
requirements to explode
none to minimal energy
detonator
detonator and secondary booster
The triggering energy for a primary explosive ranges up to being hit with a hammer. Some can explode with minimal energy.
Cost of use reflects transport, storage and use.
A detonator usually is made from a small amount of a primary explosive.
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