Binary Gel Explosive

MatrEX® is a "binary" explosive, which means it comes in two parts. Think of it like a two-part epoxy glue. Part A and Part B are liquids that are safe on their own. They only become a powerful explosive when you mix them together through a special nozzle.

Before it is mixed, MatrEX® is classified as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid, similar to how gasoline or paint thinner is categorized. It is not regulated as an explosive (Class 1) during shipping, making it much safer and cheaper to transport than dynamite or C4.

When it comes out of the mixer, it feels like thick automotive grease. After a few minutes, it cures (hardens) into a texture like stiff Jello.

No. Once the gel cures, it holds its shape perfectly. You can fill a cup, wait a few minutes, turn it upside down, and nothing will drip or run out. This makes it amazing for filling complex shapes or 3D-printed devices.

No. MatrEX® is a professional-grade energetic material restricted to Military, Law Enforcement, and certified Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) professionals.

In some ways, yes—it's very powerful. But unlike movie explosives that often look like clay (C4) or liquid, this is a gel. Also, it requires specific initiation (a blasting cap) to go off; you can't just shoot it or light it on fire to make it explode.

Since the unmixed parts are just flammable liquids (like solvents), they can be cleaned up using standard absorbent materials (like kitty litter or shop rags) and disposed of according to local hazmat regulations for flammable liquids.

Nitromethane has a mild, characteristic odor often associated with drag racing fuel or solvents. It is distinct but not overwhelmingly noxious in small quantities.

Absolutely not. MatrEX® is designed to be mixed only using the static mixing nozzle provided with the cartridge. Mixing by hand is dangerous, unreliable, and violates safety protocols. The nozzle ensures the exact ratio and thorough mixing required for a stable detonation.

Nothing explosive happens. The components are separated and are not shock-sensitive individually. It might make a mess if the plastic breaks, but it won't explode.

MatrEX® is a Nitromethane-based binary explosive formulation.

The R.E. Factor is 1.14. This indicates that MatrEX® generates approximately 14% more blast energy than an equivalent weight of TNT (Trinitrotoluene).

The Detonation Velocity is 6,200 m/s (approx. 20,340 ft/s). This high velocity contributes to its effectiveness in brisance (shattering power) and cutting applications.

The density is 1.09 g/ml.

The viscosity is approximately 200,000 cP (centipoise). This high viscosity ensures the material does not run or drip, allowing for overhead or vertical application without containment.

• Un-boosted: 3/8 inch (9.5mm)
• Boosted: 1/4 inch (6.35mm)

Charges thinner than these dimensions may fail to propagate detonation reliably.

Yes. Once mixed and cured, MatrEX® is shock-sensitive and can be initiated with a standard blasting cap or detonating cord.

51.97 grams (0.11 lbs).

572.62 grams (1.21 lbs).

992.05 grams (2.57 lbs).

MatrEX® has a shelf life of +24 months when stored correctly in its unmixed state. Monthly testing is conducted to verify stability.

The gel begins to thicken immediately upon mixing and typically cures to a stable, non-slumping consistency within 5 minutes, depending on ambient temperature.

Because the curing process is rapid, the "working time" is essentially the time it takes to dispense the cartridge. It is designed for immediate application into the target or device.

Once mixed and cured, the charge remains viable and detonable for a minimum of 24 hours.

Yes. As a water-gel based explosive, it has excellent water resistance properties and can be used in damp or wet environments once cured.

Yes. Its high density, moldability, and high VoD make it excellent for shaped charge applications. It can be injected into 3D-printed or standard liner bodies to create effective penetrators.

Extensive material testing has been conducted to ensure compatibility with standard 3D printing materials such as PLA, ABS, and Nylon. The gel does not degrade these casings during the typical operational window.

Like most chemical reactions, cold temperatures can slow the curing process, while heat can accelerate it. The gel is formulated to perform within standard operational temperature ranges defined by MIL-STD requirements.

Standard PPE for handling flammable industrial chemicals is recommended: safety glasses/goggles and nitrile gloves to prevent skin contact with the unmixed or mixed components.

While C4 is an excellent explosive, MatrEX® offers superior logistics (Class 3 transport vs. Class 1), easier moldability into complex geometries (via injection/extrusion), and higher R.E. factor (1.14) in a format that does not require heavy regulatory oversight until mixed.

No. Once the mixing stops, the gel inside the nozzle will cure and block it. A fresh nozzle must be used for each new application session or if the flow is paused for longer than the cure time.

The gel itself does not produce fragmentation. However, whatever container or device it is filled into (steel pipe, 3D printed case with shrapnel) will produce fragmentation upon detonation.

Standard EOD misfire procedures apply. Wait the required soak time (typically 30-60 minutes depending on SOP) before approaching. Since the gel is shock sensitive, it must be handled with the same extreme caution as any live high explosive.

Yes. MatrEX® was specifically developed with ACE concepts in mind. Its ability to be transported via standard logistics chains (non-hazmat explosive) and mixed on-site allows small teams to deploy with significant explosive capability without the burden of heavy explosive safety arcs during transport.

Unmixed, expired cartridges should be disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations for flammable liquids and chemical waste. They do not require EOD disposal unless mixed.