How this calculator works
TNT equivalent is a conventional energy comparison: one kilogram corresponds to 4.184 MJ. A material calculation requires a measured specific energy on the same basis. Heat of combustion, heat of detonation and mechanical blast effects are different quantities; a single energy ratio does not supply a blast model. Use a supported specific energy rather than a composition name alone.
Formula
m_TNT = E/(4184000 J/kg); E = m_material H; relative factor = H/4184000.
Worked example
8.368 MJ equals 2 kg TNT equivalent. A material mass of 3 kg at 2.092 MJ/kg gives 6.276 MJ, or 1.5 kg TNT equivalent.
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Frequently asked questions
Is a tonne of TNT an actual mass measurement?
It is an energy unit defined as 4.184 GJ.
Does equal energy imply equal pressure?
No. Release rate, geometry, confinement and coupling affect the physical outcome.
Why are named explosive presets absent?
Specific energies depend on formulation and measurement basis. Enter a documented value for the material and conditions you mean.