Cordite: A double based, explosive contains 30 to 40% nitroglycerine, nitrocellulose, and a small quantity of petroleum jelly as a stabilizer.High Explosives and Detonators Many of the high explosives including TNT, RDX, PETN, and plastic bonded explosives such as C-4 and Semtex have a high resistance to shock or friction and can be safely stored and handled.