What characterizes a blasting agent?

A blasting agent is specifically characterized by its composition and detonation properties. It is a type of explosive that requires a high-energy initiator to detonate, which is not provided by a standard detonator like a Number 8 blasting cap. Instead, these materials are typically mixtures of fuel and oxidizer that are stable and can be handled relatively safely until they are exposed to a suitable detonating device. This characteristic of needing a specific and more powerful detonator distinguishes blasting agents from other explosives that can be initiated by less powerful means.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of a blasting agent. A material used for demolition doesn’t encompass the specific compositional traits or detonation requirements of blasting agents. The classification of explosive materials by the Department of Transportation is broader and does not pertain specifically to the properties defining a blasting agent. Lastly, a highly volatile compound prepared for immediate blasting suggests qualities of a different type of explosive, potentially one that can be detonated more easily and doesn’t align with the definition of blasting agents, which are designed to be more stable until appropriately initiated.