C4 MOLDABLE PLASTIC EXPLOSIVE
Key Specs
Specifications
RDX-based plastic explosive – RDX (~91%)
Synonyms
- Composition C-4,
- C4 explosive
- Plastic explosive
- RDX-based plastic explosive
- M112 demolition block
- C-4 demolition charge
NATO Stock Number
1375-01-090-8095 (for M112 block)
C4 Plastic Explosive
C4 is a white, moldable plastic explosive composed primarily of RDX (cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine), plasticizers, and polymeric binders. It is extremely stable,
waterproof, and highly effective in cutting, breaching, and demolition applications. SWORD Energetics supplies C4 in accordance with U.S. military MIL-C-400 standards, engineered for operational reliability in extreme climates. C4 can be easily shaped by hand and is insensitive to small arms fire or rough handling, while maintaining high detonation performance when initiated with a standard #8 blasting cap or equivalent booster.
Chemical Properties
Color: White
Physical state: Crystalline solid
Velocity of Detonationt: 8,040 m/s
Density: 1.58 g/cm³
Detonation Pressure: 29 GPa
Heat of Explosion: 6,000 kJ/kg
Oxygen Balance: -21.6%
Impact Sensitivity: ≥7 J
Friction Sensitivity: ≥160 N
Plasticity Range: 204–206 °C
Boiling point: –50°C to +75°C
Organic solvents: Slightly soluble in methanol, ether, ethyacetate, glacial acetic acid
Handling and Safety Notes
Packaging Type: Vacuum-sealed M112 block
Weight Per Unit:1.25lbs
Units Per Case:16 M112 blocks
Case Weight: 20lbs (9.07kg)
Case Dimensions:16 x 10 x 6 in
Palletization Format: 48 cases per pallet
Shelf Life: 10 years
Storage Conditions: ≤30°C, low humidity
UN Number: 0048
Hazard Class: 1.1D
Compatability Group: D
Parameters
Explosive Type: RDX-based plastic explosive
Form: White to light grey, moldable putty
Additives: Plasticizer, binder (e.g., polyisobutylene), motor oil
Water Resistance: Excellent (fully waterproof)
Shelf Life: >10 years under controlled storage
Performance Characteristics
Velocity of Detonation (VoD): ~8,040 m/s (at max density, 25°C)
Detonation Pressure: ~270–300 kbar
Brisance: High
Sensitivity to Shock/Impact:Low (requires detonator for initiation)
Initiation Methods: L1A2/L2A2 detonators, L5A1 det cord, Detonating Cord Boosters (DCB)