What is the full form of PETN

PETN: Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate

PETN stands for Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate. It is a highly explosive organic compound that looks like white powder. It is mixed with other chemicals to make Semtex which is used for mining and military purposes. It is relatively stable and can be detonated by heat or shock wave.

A very small of this explosive can cause a big blast; around 100g of PETN can easily destroy a car. It is also widely used by militants as it cannot be detected easily due to its odorless and colourless crystals. The chemical formula of PETN is C₅H₈N₄O₁₂. It is prepared by a chemical reaction in which pentaerythritol (C5H12O4) reacts with nitric acid (HNO2).

Brief History

PETN was first prepared and patented by the explosives manufacturer Rheinisch-Westfalische Sprengstoff A.G. of Cologne, Germany in 1894. Its production started in 1912 when German government patented the improved method of production. In World War I, it was used by the German Military. In World War II, it was used in the MGFF/M autocannons (weapon systems of the Luftwaffe) and in the Minengechoss (high-capacity autocannon ammunition).

Medical Use

In addition to mining and military purpose, it also has medical use; it is used as a vasodilator in the treatment of various heart problems, e.g. the major part of heart medicine Lentonitrat is pure PETN.