The review describes the current state of research concerning detonation nanodiamonds, including production, methods of studying the properties and applications. The main achievements in the theory and practice of synthesis of detonation nanodiamonds over the past 15 years are addressed systematically; the influence of control factors on this process, performed using single or mixed explosives, are discussed. A new highly economical and environmentally friendly method for chemical purification of nanodiamonds is described. The operational characteristics of new materials based on nanodiamonds are presented. The application prospects of nanodiamonds in traditional and new fields are demonstrated.