Definitions for "Bursting Charge"
The internal pyrotechnic load in a shell designed to break or burst the shell at a predetermined time and height, igniting and spreading the contents of the shell.
a quantity of explosive to be set off at one time; "this cartridge has a powder charge of 50 grains"
The charge in a shell or rocket which is ignited by the lifting charge at the top of its ascent, exploding the firework and igniting the stars or other effects.