ABSTRACT
One of the first things to know about sensitivity is the fact that it is a very complex subject. The only correct answer to a question like “Is this mixture sensitive?” is another question: “Sensitive to what?” A particular composition may be extremely sensitive to electrostatic spark, but not have any heightened sensitivity to elevated temperature. Similarly, a friction-sensitive material may not be particularly sensitive to spark. Each mode of energy input interacts with the components of an energetic material in a different way. If the applied energy is effectively absorbed by the composition, a temperature rise may occur. If the rising temperature approaches the ignition temperature of the composition, ignition may result.
