Mercury fulminate is a primary explosive. It is highly sensitive to friction, heat and shock. Its main use is blasting caps, which was discovered by Alfred Nobel, although it was first discovered by Howard.
It can be prepared by mixing
alcohol (18 parts) with a solution prepared by action of concentrated nitric acid (60 parts) on mercury (1 part). The solution is slightly heated and maintained below 60°C. After a couple of minutes a reaction happens that heats the solution.
The fumes should not be breathed since they are
toxic. Soon, mercury fulminate precipitates. The product has to be washed with
water until no
trace of acid remains. The manipulation of mercury fulminate is quite
safe, provided that it remains humid.