Possible Clues:

• Rotating ties aren't popular joke shop purchase
• Furore attached to explosive prankster's article
• Malodorous pellet
• High school prank component, maybe
• What makes a hum as it explodes?
• Smelly device let off by a schoolboy
• Foul-smelling object used by practical jokers
• Object used in some pranks
• Furore over theatrical flop leaves one with a nasty smell
• Device letting off unpleasant smell when opened - reeking explosive