Abstract: A method for attaining a predetermined compressive stress is achieved by a device in the form of a washer, coating, or plug which as a function of pressure does not yield significantly, but when a predetermined pressure is reached, a sudden change in structure takes place which effects detonation of an explosive mixture which detonation is indicated by a sound, a puff of smoke, a change of appearance, a sudden release of heat, or an instantaneous increase in friction. The device includes a porous brittle body in which an explosive substance has been absorbed, and also preferably hard particles that aid in effecting detonation when the porous body goes through a physical change. The detonation can also join contact surfaces together, serve as an indication of desired prestress or torque applied to a fastener, to indicate a load limit, and the like.