Nitro-Explosives: A Practical Treatise

A concise yet thorough guide, this work gathers the practical knowledge of a veteran chemist who once served as public analyst, consultant to powder manufacturers, and resident chemist at leading explosives works. Written at the turn of the twentieth century, it reflects the period’s rapid advances in nitro‑based materials while remaining grounded in hands‑on experience. The author’s clear explanations aim to help engineers, miners and chemists understand the fundamentals of these powerful substances.

The treatise walks readers through the chemistry, manufacture, and analysis of the major nitro‑explosives of the day. Chapters detail the preparation of nitroglycerine, the evolution of nitro‑cellulose and gun‑cotton, a wide variety of dynamites—including gelatin and gelignite—and the emerging class of smokeless powders. Safety precautions, storage advice, and waste‑acid treatment are presented alongside step‑by‑step process outlines.

Supplemented with the author’s own drawings and carefully credited illustrations, the book also surveys protective measures for facilities, lightning‑protection systems, and the properties of specialized compounds such as nitro‑benzol and roburite. It serves as both a historical snapshot and a practical reference for anyone interested in the science and engineering of early explosives.