Detonator, << DEHT uh `nay` tuhr, >> is a small metal or plastic capsule that contains an easily-ignited, low-explosive charge. It is used to detonate (set off) larger explosive charges, such as dynamite, mines, and bombs. It contains a heat-sensitive priming charge, such as lead azide, and a base charge of some more powerful explosive, such as RDX. Flame from a fuse or heat from an electric wire ignites the priming charge, which triggers the base charge. The base charge explosion sets off the dynamite, mine, or bomb.
Electric detonators need careful handling because many kinds may be set off by a spark of static electricity from the body. Detonators for dynamite are called blasting caps. They can cause serious injury and should be handled only by experts.
