Abstract: High density water gel explosives having relatively large amounts of low density sensitizers are prepared by evenly dispersing a densifying material therethrough. Separation of the densifying material during the mixing and packaging of the water gel explosive is prevented by adding from about 0.1 to 2% comminuted paper to the water gel. It has been found that the paper greatly increases the viscosity of the composition, so that the heavier densifying materials do not settle out. The paper has also been found to contribute to the stability of the explosive gel over prolonged storage periods.

Abstract: A booster container is used to hold a primary charge useful for detonating cap insensitive explosives, such as ammonium nitrate. The container includes a pair of cord tunnels which may be used in various combinations to detonate the primary charge with either an electric blasting cap or a detonating cord. The container is also useful for holding non-electric blasting caps and transfer tubes in place as the booster container is lowered into the bore hole.

Abstract: An improved explosive composition comprises a carbonaceous absorbent formed from processed cellulose, a liquid explosive and an oxygen-supplying salt. By adding varying amounts of nitrocellulose, the composition may form a gelatin or semigelatin dynamite.