Boom! The Science of Explosives

Over 1,000 years ago, the Chinese made a discovery that changed the world. This science documentary takes us on an action-fuelled rocket ride through the world of dynamite, TNT and Semtex. From mini blasts that protect drivers in accidents, to special effects in the cinema, to the highly complicated blasting of a high-rise building: there are many more bangs in our everyday lives than we think. 

Our modern life is unthinkable without explosives: Material for new roads or railways is extracted from quarries by blasting. Airbags inflate in fractions of a second and save lives – thanks to tiny detonators. There are even systems in cars to protect pedestrians in accidents, cushioning the impact on the bonnet. In the USA, researchers are using explosives to create new substances and nanoparticles that could revolutionise technology. They are extremely hard, heat-resistant and conduct electricity excellently. With the help of these nanoparticles, more powerful electronic components can be produced and, for example, the charging times of batteries can be significantly reduced. These super materials are only created by the high pressures and temperatures during detonation.

Explosives release enormous forces in millionths of a second – this film is about how many different ways you can use this unique property.