Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

An explosive booster shaped to fit into a blasthole adjacent a main explosive charge is provided. The booster comprises a body containing a charge of an explosive substance with a passage extending inwardly of the body to receive a detonator therein. The booster is configured to alter the shape of a detonation wave generated upon initiation of the detonator. In an embodiment, the booster includes a first and a second explosive substance, with the first explosive substance being shaped and selected to cause an outer portion of the detonation wave to accelerate relative to the remainder of the wave thereby altering the shape of the wave from a generally spherical wave to a generally planar wave. In an embodiment, the booster includes an internal member capable of altering the shape of the detonation wave.

An explosive booster shaped to fit into a blasthole adjacent a main explosive charge is provided. The booster comprises a body containing a charge of an explosive substance with a passage extending inwardly of the body to receive a detonator therein. The booster is configured to alter the shape of a detonation wave generated upon initiation of the detonator. In an embodiment, the booster includes a first and a second explosive substance, with the first explosive substance being shaped and selected to cause an outer portion of the detonation wave to accelerate relative to the remainder of the wave thereby altering the shape of the wave from a generally spherical wave to a generally planar wave. In an embodiment, the booster includes an internal member capable of altering the shape of the detonation wave.

An agricultural enhancement method for removing or overcoming soil fragipan, hardpan, or other natural and/or artificial soil compaction barriers is disclosed. These barriers prevent root and/or water penetration, which inhibits agricultural development. Consequently, removing and overcoming these barriers is beneficial to the soil and to agricultural yields.

Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

Generally, embodiments of the invention can include a linear shaped charge (LSC) end cap coupling structure adapted for holding an initiator structure adapted to initiate a booster explosive material, the booster explosive material, and the LSC in abutting contact with each other. One embodiment includes a rubber body formed with cavities adapted to receive the LSC, booster, and initiator structure (e.g., detonation cord). One internal cavity can be formed with a plurality of flexible protrusions or fins which are oriented towards a center axis of the preferred embodiment of three cavities configured to impart an interference fit with the initiator structure. Methods related to the invention are also provided.

A focused output detonator includes a detonator shell including detonator components, and a focuser coupled to the detonator shell. The detonator shell may include a body extending along a central axis of the detonator shell. A first open end is provided at a first end of the body, and a closed end is provided at a second end of the body. A chamber is bounded by the body and the closed end, and the detonator components are housed in the chamber. The focuser is coupled to the closed end of the detonator shell. According to an aspect, the focused output detonator is structured to focus a ballistic output of the focuser along the central axis and away from the detonator shell. According to an aspect, the focuser includes a donor charge. The focuser may include an encapsulated and hydraulically sealed donor charge.