Tovex
Tovex (also known as: Threnchrite, Seismogel, and Seismopac) is a water gel explosive that has several advantages over traditional dynamite. Tovex is replacing dynamite because it is less toxic and is less hazardous to manufacture, transport, and store.[1] Tovex is used by 80% of international oil companies for seismic exploration.[2] There are numerous versions ranging from shearing charges to aluminized common blasting agents.
History
Tovex was introduced in 1974 by Du Pont. In 1977, Du Pont withdrew from the dynamite business in favor of Tovex.[3] Tovex was the first water gel explosive to eliminate nitroglycerine as a basic ingredient. It is distributed in Europe by Societe Suisse des Explosifs, Brigue in Switzerland.
Properties
Tovex is an aqueous solution of ammonium nitrate which is mixed with other nitrates, sensitized fuels and binding agents.[4] Small bubbles are introduced in such a manner that static pressure will not compress then. The detonation Velocity of Tovex is around 4,000 fps.[5] The specific gravity is 0.8-1.4. Tovex looks like a white to gray fluid gel.[6]
Ingredients
- Sodium Nitrate
- Ammonium Nitrate
- Monomethylamine Nitrate
- Calcium Nitrate
- Aluminum
- Fuel Oil No.2
- Carbonaceous Fuel
- Perlite
- Fibrous Glass (silica)
- Ethylene Glycol
- Guar Gum
Uses
Tovex Avalanche© is used in mountain regions for avalanche release.
- Blasting for road construction.
- Mining for minerals.
- Quarries for the construction and building industry.
- Seismic exploration
- Tunneling
Features
- Cap sensitive
- Wide range of bore hole densities.
- Improved flexibility in loading.
- Water resistant.
- No Nitroglycerin and noxious fumes.
- Reduced handling, transportation and storage hazards.
- High bubble energy (Under water explosion)
- Reduced sound levels and better control on vibrations
References
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