Nitrostarch Slurry As A Blasting Agent For Snow Safety Work

A type of high explosive known as nitrostarch slurry has recently become available and has been suggested on several occasions as suitable for snow safety operations such as avalanche blasting. The basic explosive ingredient of this compound is nitrostarch, which is combined with certain other elements and a gelling agent. The gelling agent sets up to a plastic-like consistency about 24 hours after mixing. The result is an explosive compound with the consistency of moist, soft clay. It can be readily molded to any desired shape. It is packaged for sale in polyethylene bags which can be readily shaped for application. This explosive is sold primarily as an agent for mud-capping and similar applications and is reported to be effective for such use.