PETN, molecular formula C5H8N4O12. Ideal detonation velocity 8300 ms-1 at a density of 1773 Kgm-3.

PETN is a very brisant explosive with a wide range of uses in both the military and civilian domain.

PETN is used in detcord (primacord) and is also produced as a sheet explosive, useful for hardening, welding and shaping metals.

Brand names under which PETN is sold as a vasodilator include Vasodiatol, Metranil, and Cardiacap.