Semtex — pliable plastic explosive

Composition and characteristics

The formulation typically combines powerful explosive salts with plasticizers and binders to produce a dough-like material. Common energetic components include RDX together with pentaerythritol tetranitrate — often referenced as pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) — blended to balance brisance and handling properties. Characteristics often cited are:

• High explosive velocity and brisance;
• Malleability for shaping and placement;
• Stability during storage and handling until a detonator is used.

History, misuse and regulation

Semtex was developed and produced in Central Europe in the mid‑20th century and later entered both military and civilian demolition markets. Its relatively low detectability and ease of concealment led to misuse by insurgent and terrorist groups in the late 20th century, which in turn prompted tighter export controls, reduced production for civilian markets, and the introduction of detection and marking measures by manufacturers and governments.

Uses, detection and safety

Authorized uses include controlled demolition, mining, and military demolition when precise, compact charges are needed. Detection efforts focus on chemical tagging, vapor sensors and trained dogs; safety practices emphasize secure transport, inventory controls, and that initiation must be performed only with approved detonators by trained personnel.