Melinite is a type of explosive that was first used by the French army in 1904. The word is pronounced /ˈmɛlɪnaɪt/, with the stress on the second syllable. The first part of the word, "melin," comes from the last name of the French chemist who invented it, Émile Henry, and the suffix "-ite" indicates that it is a mineral or substance. Despite its destructive power, melinite has served as an important tool in the history of warfare and technological advancement.
Melinite is a noun that refers to a powerful explosive compound primarily composed of picric acid and other additives. It was extensively used as a military explosive in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The term "melinite" specifically refers to a specific type of explosive mixture, named after the French chemist and engineer Paul Vieille who developed it in the late 19th century. Its main component, picric acid, is a yellow crystalline compound derived from phenol. Picric acid is known for its high explosive properties, making it suitable for military applications.
Melinite is created by mixing picric acid with other stabilizing agents, binders, and absorbents, resulting in a more practical and safer explosive compound. This mixture increased its stability, allowing for easier manufacturing, transportation, and handling, while also reducing the risk of accidental detonation.
Melinite played a significant role during World War I as a military explosive. It was utilized for various purposes, such as artillery shells, hand grenades, and even aerial bombs. However, the production and use of melinite declined in subsequent years as more advanced and safer explosive compounds were developed.
In summary, melinite is a powerful explosive compound consisting primarily of picric acid and other additives. It gained prominence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially during World War I, due to its explosive properties and military applications.
The word "Melinite" is derived from the name of its inventor, Colonel Turpin de Sansan de la Roquette-Melleville, who was a French artillery officer. He developed this explosive substance in the late 19th century, and it was named in his honor. Thus, "Melinite" is a compound formed by combining his surname, Melleville, with the "-ite" suffix, which was commonly used for explosive substances at that time.