Combustion is produced by the reaction of oxygen and some sort of fuel at high temperatures. ... Because high explosives do not require oxygen (or any other co-reactant), they break down much more rapidly and are much more versatile than combustible materials.

What is needed for an explosion?

Fires and explosions require three elements in order to occur (the 'fire triangle'): oxygen, fuel and heat.

Can TNT explode without oxygen?

Because TNT melts at 82° C (178° F) and does not explode below 240° C (464° F), it can be melted in steam-heated vessels and poured into casings. It is relatively insensitive to shock and cannot be exploded without a detonator.