Composition GT

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Composition GT is a mixture of 60% Gelignite and 40% Trinitrotoluene. It is somewhat moldable and easily castable when liquid. It produces a strongly brisant detonation sharper than TNT alone and relatively insensitive to shocks or friction, requiring a primary explosive primers to detonate properly.

History & Usage

History

Standing for its core ingredients Gélignite and Trinitrotoluène, Composition GT was introduced in 1916 after battle experience demonstrated recurrent problems with older Mélinite-filled shells in naval engagements. It is the product of several years of research into attempting to find a less sensitive replacement for nitrocellulose - too prone to detonating early on impact - without compromising explosive force or becoming prohibitively expensive.

Everyday use

Composition GT was introduced primarily for use in armor-piercing and semi-armor-piercing large gun artillery, which remains its most common usage, though it is being used experimentally as explosive filler in other weapon types and as a demolition tool.

Type

Composite

Odor

Odorless

Taste

Sharply sweet

Color

White

Boiling / Condensation Point

128°C

Melting / Freezing Point

52°C