A practical look at how explosives are tested to improve safety and performance in mining and industry. This book presents the methods developed by C. E. Bichel and his team for studying how different explosives ignite, decompose, and release energy. It frames the science through hands-on experiments and the specialized equipment used to measure outcomes in real-world conditions.

The text concentrates on experimental work at the Carbonite Works, explaining why safer blasting matters in gas-prone mines and how researchers compare materials like black powder, dynamite, and ammonium nitrate types. It combines technical detail with clear explanations of what the results mean for practice in mining and blasting operations.

• How rate of detonation is measured and why it matters for wall pressure and blasting results


• How heat of decomposition is determined and interpreted for different explosives


• How practical findings translate to safer, more efficient blasting in diverse rock and gas conditions


• What kinds of apparatus and procedures are used to study ignition, combustion, and gas products

Ideal for readers interested in mining engineering, blasting theory, and practical approaches to safe explosive use.

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