Abstract: An explosive formulation used in blasting operations such as, but not limited to, mining operations and the like. The formulation is composed of a modified form of Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil (ANFO) explosives which have been modified by the incorporation of a solid fuel material. The formulation comprising a dry granular solid component, a liquid high-boiling point component of about 4% by weight, and a solid fuel material. The solid fuel material comprising vitrinite macerals, liptinite macerals, and inert macerals fusinite and semifusinite, and is characterized as (1) having a concentrate of liptinite that is higher than normal coals, and (2) having a concentrate of pseudovitrinite that is significantly lower than normal coals.

Abstract: An explosive suspension used in blasting operations such as, but not limited to, mining operations and the like, composed of ammonium nitrate (AN) based explosives incorporating a solid fuel material and a suspending agent. The suspension comprises an oxidizer component, a solid fuel material, optionally up to 10 weight % of a liquid fuel component, and a suspending agent. The solid fuel material comprises vitrinite macerals, liptinite macerals, and inert macerals fusinite and semifusinite, and is characterized as (1) having a concentration of liptinite that is higher than normal coals, and (2) having a concentration of pseudovitrinite that is significantly lower than normal coals.

Abstract: A readily gasified additive has been added to AN (ammonium nitrate) based bulk explosives (ANFO, emulsions, and combinations thereof) with positive results, due to the time, temperature, and pressure conditions generated in a blasthole. The preferred final explosive mixture is primarily comprised of AN, fuel oil, and a carbonaceous additive material that is characterized as being readily gasified as indicated by its rapid release of volatile materials and char formation, the high internal porosity and surface area of the base material and its char, and the uniform distribution of catalytic mineral matter throughout the material. It is understood that other readily gasified additives may be similarly effective.