Minimum metal mine

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A Minimum metal mine is a landmine that is designed to use the minimum amount of metal in its construction. Some mine designs contain almost no metal at all. Typically this is achieved by using either a wooden, plastic or glass body holding the explosive charge, with a few small metallic components inside the detonator. Minimum metal mines are difficult to detect using conventional metal mine detectors, but may be vulnerable to detection using more modern techniques. An early example is the German Glasmine 43, used during World War 2 and made of glass.

Many different types of minimum metal mines have been produced in various countries over the years.

Note:- though rare, a few landmine designs contain absolutely no metal whatsoever. Typically, such designs employ a glass vial containing a mixture of friction-sensitive pyrotechnic composition and glass-powder. Downward pressure concentrated on the vial causes a flash of flame, initiating the explosive train.

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