Substances that are energetically unstable and can produce a sudden expansion of the material, called an explosion, which is accompanied by heat, pressure and noise. Other things which have been described as explosive that are not included here are explosive action of laser heating, human performance, sudden epidemiological outbreaks, or fast cell growth.
    

concept

Dental extraction involving drilling and electrically-detonated explosives: eight vignettes. Pen drawing by R. Bull.

The controlled explosion of an underwater mine to clear rocks in the East River between Harlem and the Bronx, New York. Wood engraving.

A system of pyrotechny : comprehending the theory and practice, with the application of chemistry : designed for exhibition and for war : in four parts, containing an account of the substances used in fire-works : the instruments, utensils, and manipulations : fire-works for exhibition : and military pyrotechny : adapted to the military and naval officer, the man of science, and the artificer / by James Cutbush.

Explosives

Images

Catalogue

Artillery: 16th cent.

Memoir on the explosiveness of nitre : with a view to elucidate its agency in the tremendous explosion of July, 1845, in New York / by Robert Hare.

Feuer-Buech

The controlled explosion of an underwater mine to clear rocks in the East River between Harlem and the Bronx, New York. Wood engraving.