Final answer:
Detonating cords can be damaged during loading due to mechanical abrasion, electrostatic discharge, impact or compression, excessive heat, and chemical exposure.
Step-by-step explanation
Detonating cords used in blasting operations can be damaged during loading in several ways. The following describes five such ways:
Mechanical Abrasion: Rough handling or dragging the cords over sharp surfaces can abrade the outer layer and compromise the integrity of the detonating cord.
Electrostatic Discharge: Detonating cords may be sensitive to static electricity which can be particularly hazardous in dry conditions where static charge builds up more easily, leading to accidental detonation.
Impact or Compression: Heavy weights dropping on the cords or improper stacking of materials can cause physical damage to the cord or its internal components.
Excessive Heat: Exposure to high temperatures, which might occur near other operations or due to environmental conditions, can destabilize the explosive compounds within the cord.
Chemical Exposure: Contact with corrosive or reactive substances can deteriorate the detonating cord's materials or react with the explosive compound, potentially causing it to become unstable or denoted prematurely.