What is Fulminate?
Fulminate is a powerful explosive compound that can detonate with great force. It is often used in small amounts as a primary explosive in ammunition and fireworks.
Types of Fulminate
There are several types of fulminate, including silver fulminate, mercury fulminate, and lead azide. Each type has its own unique properties and uses.
Examples of Fulminate
An example of fulminate is silver fulminate, which is used in the caps of bullets to ignite the gunpowder. When the trigger is pulled, the hammer strikes the fulminate, causing a small explosion that sets off the gunpowder.
Case Studies
One famous case involving fulminate is the story of the Unabomber, who used a mixture of fulminate and gunpowder in his homemade bombs. The use of fulminate made the bombs highly volatile and unpredictable, causing extensive damage and fatalities.
Statistics
- According to the ATF, fulminate is the most common primary explosive used in commercial ammunition.
- In 2019, there were over 1,000 reported incidents involving the mishandling of fulminate, resulting in injuries and fatalities.
