Gelignite

Gelignite is a gelatinous explosive commonly used in quarries, mines and underwater blasting. Its composition is 60% nitroglycerin, 4% nitrocellulose or guncotton, 8% sawdust and 28% potassium nitrate (one of the components of saltpeter).

This high-density gelatinous dynamite, with very high breaking power and excellent resistance to water, is used for blasting extremely hard rocks and in severe conditions in the presence of water. It is also used in special cases in which a high concentration of energy is needed.

It is suitable for underwater blasting, as well as in demolition of port buildings, underwater excavations for dredging, opening channels, piling, foundations for bridges, dikes, breakwaters and other uses.

Gelignite was invented in 1875 by Swedish chemist Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite. It is more stable than dynamite, but just like dynamite it can suffer from "sweating" when used. of its main component, nitroglycerin. Its composition makes it easily moldable and safe to handle without protection, as long as it is not near anything capable of detonating it.

One of the cheapest explosives, gelignite burns slowly and cannot explode without a detonator, so it can be stored safely.

In the UK, possession of gelignite requires an explosives certificate, issued by the local Chief Constable. Due to its widespread civilian use in quarrying and mining, it has historically been used by irregular or paramilitary groups such as the Irish Republican Army and the Ulster Volunteer Force.