This is a publication of the Western New York Pyrotechnic
Association. It may be reproduced in whole or in part without
permission or compensation providing:
[Editors note: I have received several letters offering comments
and/or corrections on this document. Since I am not the author of the
document, and do not have the expertise to judge these comments, I have
put them as received on another page]
1) credit is given to the Western New York Pyrotechnic Association
2) it is distributed free. If you plan to make a buck on it, we want a piece of it!!
We believe that the information contained herein is true and correct,
however it is offered only as a guide and not to be used as a
guarantee. We cannot assume responsibility nor liability for the use or
misuse of the information contained herein.
The following is a compilation of information gathered over the years
from various research and sources too numerous to remember.
Within these pages you will find descriptions of almost 150 chemicals
that are used in Fireworks, Explosives, Rocket Fuels or are explosives
in themselves. This list is not complete and is not intended to be
complete. All of the uses are not given and only the related purposes
of each are stated.
Whenever possible we explain which grades are thought to be the best,
the chemical formula, melting temperature, decomposition temperature,
form (liquid, powder, crystal, etc.), if it will explode, if it is
poisonous and its usage. Some of these chemicals cannot be purchased
and are offered as a guide for information purposes only.
CHEMICALS HAVE A CERTAIN PURPOSE TO PERFORM IN FIREWORKS AND CAN BE CLASSIFIED INTO FOUR GROUPS:
GROUP I.
These chemicals are the chemicals which produce the oxygen and are called oxidizers.
GROUP II.
Those which combine with the oxidizers are called reducers.
GROUP III.
These are the chemicals which regulate the rate of burning and help to produce the desired effect.
GROUP IV.
This group of chemicals are those which impart color to the flame.
PLEASE NOTE: ALL REFERENCES TO TEMPERATURE ARE IN DEGREES
FARENHEIT.
SAFETY INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS
Certain combinations of chemicals are remarkable explosive,
poisonous or hazardous in some other way, and these are generally
avoided as a matter of course. There are many others that are
perhaps equally dangerous but do not come to mind as readily.
The following list, although not complete, may serve as a memory
refresher. Stop and think for a moment before starting any work,
especially if one hazardous chemical is involved.
DO NOT CONTACT
Alkali metals, such as calcium, potassium and sodium with water,
carbon dioxide, carbon tetrachloride, and other chlorinated
hydrocarbons.
Acetic Acid with chromic acid, nitric acid, hydroxyl-containing
compounds, ethylene glycol, perchloric acid, peroxides and
permanganates.
Acetone with concentrated sulfuric and nitric acid mixtures.
Ammonia, Anhydrous with mercury, halogens, calcium hypochlorite
or hydrogen fluoride.
Ammonium Nitrate with acids, metal powders, flammable fluids,
chlorates, nitrates, sulphur and finely divided organics or
other combustibles.
Aniline with nitric acid, hydrogen peroxide or other strong
oxidizing agents.
Bromine with ammonia, acetylene, butadiene, butane, hydrogen,
sodium carbide, turpentine or finely divided metals.
Chlorates with ammonium salts, acids, metal powders, sulfur,
carbon, finely divided organics or other combustibles.
Chromic Acid with acetic acid, naphthalene, camphor, alcohol,
glycerine, turpentine and other flammable liquids.
Chlorine with ammonia, acetylene, butadiene, benzene and other
petroleum fractions, hydrogen, sodium carbides, turpentine and
finely divided powdered metals.
Cyanides with acids.
Hydrogen Peroxide with copper, chromium, iron, most metals or
their respective salts, flammable fluids and other combustible
materials, aniline and nitromethane.
Hydrogen Sulfide with nitric acid, oxidizing gases.
Hydrocarbons, generally, with fluorine, chlorine, bromine,
chromic acid or sodium peroxide.
Iodine with acetylene or ammonia
Mercury with acetylene, fulminic acid, hydrogen.
Nitric acid with acetic, chromic and hydrocyanic acids, aniline,
carbon, hydrogen sulfide, flammable fluids or gases and
substances which are readily nitrated.
Oxygen with oils, grease, hydrogen, flammable liquids, solids and
gases.
Oxalic Acid with silver or mercury.
Perchloric Acid with acetic anhydride, bismuth and its alloys,
alcohol, paper, wood and other organic materials.
Phosphorous Pentoxide with water
Sodium Peroxide with any oxidizable substances, for instance:
methanol, glacial acetic acid, acetic anhydride, benzaldehyde,
carbon disulfide, glycerine, ethylene glycol, ethyl acetate,
furfural, etc.
Sulfuric Acid with chlorates, perchlorates, permanganates and
water.
Flash Powder
ALL FLASH POWDERS ARE EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS. THEY WILL IGNITE FROM FRICTION, IMPACT, OR FLAME.
While it is assumed that the individual who is dispensing these
materials is responsible and knowledgeable as to their use, the
following pointers will prove helpful:
Always use electrical ignition, either a commercial squib or
Nichrome hot wire. The use of a squib is preferred because it provides
a more positive ignition.
Always use an approved flash pot, made from transite or other similar material.
Always use the minimum amount of powder required to achieve
the desired effect. In general, one quarter of a teaspoon will be
sufficient.
Always have only one person who is responsible for dispensing and storing the flash powders.
Never pour the powder directly from the bottle into the flash
pot. Measure the correct amount using a non-sparking metal, not
plastic, spoon.
Never confine or compact the powder in any way. To do so may lead to a violent explosion.
Never return unused powder to the original bottle.
Never mix two different colors of flash powder. In many cases,
the chemicals in the two materials are incompatible with each other.
Never pour flash powder from its plastic bottle onto plastic
film or into another plastic container. The material is packed in
plastic to reduce the danger of serious injury in case the powder
should ignite in the bottle.
Be extra careful on dry or low humidity days, when the chance of ignition by static electricity is high.
Chemical Notes
Aluminum Al
An element used for brilliancy in the fine powder form. It can
be purchased as a fine silvery or gray powder. All grades from
technical to superpure (99.9%) can be used. The danger is from
inhaling the dust and explosive room condition if too much dust
goes into the air.
Aluminum Chloride AlCl3
This chemical must not come in contact with the skin as severe
burns can result. The yellowish-white crystals or powder have
a strong attraction for water. Purchase only in the anhydrous
grade.
Amber
This is a fossil resin of vegetable origin and is yellowish-
brown in color. It is used in fireworks to a small extent.
Ammonium Bichromate and Dichromate (NH4)2Cr2O7
A mild poison used in the manufacture of tabletop volcanoes
(sometimes called Vesuvius Fire). It is available as orange
crystals in a technical grade. Also used in smoke formulas.
Ammonium Chloride NH4NO3
The common name is Sal Ammoniac. Comes as colorless crystals
or a white powder. The technical grade is used to manufacture
safety explosives and smokes.
Ammonium Oxalate NH4C2O4
This compound takes the form of colorless, poisonous, crystals.
The technical grade is suitable for the manufacture of safety
explosives.
Ammonium Perchlorate (NH4ClO4)
This chemical can be made to explode by either heat or shock.
Besides exploding in itself, it is used to manufacture other
explosives.
Ammonium Permanganate NH4MnO4
A moderate explosive which can be detonated by either heat or
shock.
Ammonium Picrate (NH4C6H2N3O7)
These bright orange crystals are used in armor piercing shells
and fireworks. If heated to 300 degrees it will explode or it
can be set off by shock. If you do any work with this
chemical, it is advisable to keep it wet.
Aniline Dyes
These are used in smoke powder formulas. They are organic coal
tar derivatives. Available in many different colors.
Aniline Green C23H25CIN2
Also known as Malachite Green. One of the many Aniline dyes.
The green crystals are used in smoke formulas.
Anthracene
A coal tar derivative used as a source of dyestuff and for
colored smokes. Available as colorless crystals which melt at
217 degrees.
Antimony Sb
Another name for this metal element is Antimony Regulus.
Purchase the black powder in 99% purity. Not the yellow
variety. It is used in pyrotechnics.
Antimony Fulminate
One of a group of unstable, explosive compounds related to
Mercury Fulminate.
Antimony Potassium Tartrate
Also known under the name of Tartar Emetic. These poisonous,
transparent, odorless crystals (or white powder) are used to
make Antimony Fulminate. The moisture that is present can be
driven off by heating to 100 degrees. Do not exceed this
temperature or the chemical will decompose.
Antimony Sulfide (Sb2S3)
This has usefulness in sharpening the report of firecrackers,
salutes, etc. or to add color to a fire. The technical black
powder is suitable. Avoid contact with the skin; dermatitis or
worse will be the result.
Aqua Regia
A strong acid containing 1 part concentrated Nitric Acid and 3
parts concentrated Hydrochloric Acid. Store in a well closed
glass bottle in a dark place. This acid will attack all
metals, including gold and platinum. It is used in making some
explosives.
Arsenic Sulfide, Red
The common name is Realgar and it is also known as Red Arsenic.
Purchase the technical grade, which is available as a poisonous
orange-red powder. It is used in fireworks to impart color to
the flame.
Arsenic Sulfide,Yellow (As2S3)
This Chemical is just as poisonous as its red brother and
is also used in fireworks, somewhat. The common name is Kings
Gold.
Arsenious Oxide (As2O)3
A white, highly poisonous powder used in fireworks. It is also
known as Arsenious Trioxide, Arsenic Oxide and Arsenous Acid.
Its uses are similar to Paris Green.
Asphaltum
A black bituminous substance, best described as powdered tar.
Auramine Hydrochloride
Also known as Auramine. It is used in smoke formulas.
Available as yellow flakes or powder, which readily dissolves
in alcohol.
Auramine
A certified Biological stain used in smoke cartridges.
Barium Carbonate BaCO3
This is a poisonous salt of Barium, which decomposes at a
fairly high temperature, 1300 degrees. It is available as a
fine white powder in the technical grade. It is used in
fireworks as a color imparter.
Barium Chlorate Ba(ClO3)2H2O
Available as a white powder. It is poisonous, as are all
Barium salts. It is used in fireworks, both as an oxidizer and
color imparter. It is as powerful as Potassium Chlorate and
should be handled with the same care. Melting point is 414
degrees.
Barium Nitrate Ba(NO3)2
The uses and precautions are the same as above with a
comparison equal to Potassium Nitrate instead of the Chlorate.
It melts at 500 degrees.
Bismuth Fulminate
One of a group of unstable, explosive compounds derived from
Fulminic Acid.
Brass
This is an alloy of Copper and Zinc. Some also contain a small
percentage of Tin. The commercial grade is suitable in
powdered form. It is used in some fireworks formulas.
Calcium Carbide CaCO3
These grayish, irregular lumps are normally packed in
waterproof and airtight metal containers. It is used in toy
cannons. Mixed with water it forms Acetylene Gas (EXPLOSIVE).
Calcium Carbonate CaCO3
This occurs as the mineral Calcite. It is used for Phosphorous
Torpedoes, but does not have any dangerous properties in
itself. Also as an acid absorber in fireworks.
Calcium Fluoride CaF2
This finds its use in a smokeless firework mixture and is not
used elsewhere. It is a white powder, also known as Fluorspar.
Calcium Phosphide Ca3P2
This compound, which comes as gray lumps, must be kept dry.
Upon contact with water it will form the flammable gas,
Phosphine. It is used in signal fires.
Camphor OC10H16
A ketone found in the wood of the Camphor tree, native to
Taiwan and a few of our states. For the best results, buy the
granulated, technical grade. Used in explosives and fireworks.
Castor Oil
The common drug store variety is used in some powders to reduce
the sensitiveness and to waterproof the mixture.
Charcoal C
A form of the element, Carbon, it is used in fireworks and
explosives as a reducing agent. It can be purchased as a dust
up to a coarse powder. The softwood variety is best and it
should be black, not brown.
Chrysoidine
An organic dye available as a red-brown powder. It is used in
smoke formulas.
Clay
This can be purchased in the powdered form. It is used dry for
chokes, nozzles and sealing firework cases. You can mix it
with water to form paste if so desired.
Confectioners Sugar
Commonly called powdered sugar, it can be purchased at your
local food store. The fineness is graded by the symbol XXXX.
It is used in explosives.
Copper Cu
As any pure metal used in fireworks, this must also be in a
powdered state. It is reddish in color, in fact, it is the
only element to be found in nature having that color.
Copper Acetoarsenite (Cu)3As2O3Cu(C2H3O2)2
The popular name for this is Paris Green. It is also called
Kings Green or Vienna Green. It is readily available as an
insecticide or as a technical grade, poisonous, emerald green
powder. It is used in fireworks to add color.
Copper Arsenate CuHAsO3
A fine, light green, poisonous powder. It is used in the
technical grade for fireworks.
Copper Carbonate CuCO3.Cu(OH)2
Also known as Cupric Carbonate or Artificial Malachite. It is
a green powder used in fireworks.
Copper Chlorate Cu(ClO3)2.6H2O
Or, technically, Cupric Chlorate. A poison used in fireworks
as an oxidizer and to add color.
Copper Chloride CuCl2
An oxidizer and color imparter used in fireworks. Purchase the
brownish-yellow technical grade. This is a poisonous compound.
Copper Nitrate Cu(NO3)2.3H2O
Or Cupric Nitrate. These blue crystals absorb water, as you
can see from the formula. It is used in fireworks.
Copper Oxide CuO
When ordering be sure to specify the black powder. It is also
available in red. The technical grade will serve the purpose
for fireworks.
Copper Oxychloride
A green powder used to impart oxygen and color especially to
blue star formulas. It is a poison and the dust should not be
inhaled.
Copper Sulfate CuSO4.5H2O
Known as Blue Vitriol, this poisonous compound is available as
blue crystals or blue powder. It can be purchased in some
drugstores. Used in fireworks for blue stars.
Copper Sulfide CuS
As are the other copper salts, this is also used in fireworks
to add color. The technical grade is suitable and is black in
color. You can make your own by passing Hydrogen Sulfide into
a Copper salt.
Decaborane B10H14
This chemical is classed as a flammable solid and is used for
rocket fuels. It will remain stable indefinitely at room
temperature.
Dextrin
This can be purchased as a white or yellow powder. It is a
good cheap glue for binding cases and stars in fireworks.
Diazoacetic Ester C4H6N2O2
A very severe explosive in the form of a yellow oil. It will
explode on contact with Sulfuric acid or when heated. Very
volatile and explosive.
Diazoaminobenzene C6H5N:N.NH.C6H5
These golden yellow crystals will explode when heated to 150
degrees.
P-Diazobenzeneslfonic Acid C6H4NSO3N
Another severe explosive. It can be exploded by rubbing the
white paste or powder, or by heating.
Diazodimitrophenol HOC6H3(NO2)2N(:N)
An organic explosive in the same group as the above compound.
Also very sensitive to shock or heat.
Diazomethane CH2N2
Also known as Azimethylene. This yellow gas is also in the
above group and can be exploded by heat or shock.
Dinitrotoulene
Known as DNT for short. These yellow crystals are used in the
manufacture of other explosives.
Ethyl Alcohol
This alcohol is the only one that is useful for fireworks. It
should be about 95% pure. It is poisonous because of the
impurities. It is clear, like water, and also a very flammable
liquid.
Fluorine Perchlorate FClO4
A very sensitive colorless gas which will explode on the
slightest contact with a rough surface. It can also be
detonated by heating to 168 degrees. Avoid all contact with
this gas, as even a trace of it will attack the lungs.
Gallic Acid C7H6O5.H2O
A white or pale fawn colored powder used in fireworks to make
whistles. When mixed with some chlorates, Permanganates or
Silver salts, it may explode.
Glycerol C3H8O3
Commonly known as Glycerin. It is obtained from oils and fats
as a by-product when making soaps. It is a sweet warm tasting
syrupy liquid which is used in several explosives. Contact
with Chromium Trionide or potassium Permanganate may cause an
explosion.
Gold Explosive
A dark brown powder which explodes when heated or rubbed. Upon
exploding, it yields Gold, Nitrogen and Ammonia. The exact
composition is unknown because it is too explosive to be dried.
Guanidine Nitrate CH5N3.HNO3
Guanidine is found in turnip juice, rice hulls and earthworms.
It is used in the preparation of this chemical, or, it can be
made from Ammonium Nitrate and Dicyanodiamide. To be of any
value, it should be 95% pure. Guanidine Nitrate is not
explosive itself, but is used in the manufacture of explosives.
It is a white powder which melts at 210 degrees.
Gum Arabic
A dried, gummy, exudate from tropical trees. It is available
as flakes, fragments and powder. It is used as a binder in
firework formulas.
Hexachlorethane CCl3.CCl3
Also known as Carbon Hexachloride, this chemical is used in
smoke formulas It can be obtained in either powder or
crystals.
Indigo
A dark blue crystalline powder which is a commercial dye. You
can purchase either the technical or pure grade for smokes.
Iodine
Heavy grayish metallic looking crystals or flakes. Poisonous.
Purchase the U.S.P. grade. It is being used in making
explosives.
Iron Fe
The granular powder (at least 99% pure) is needed for several
firework pieces. It is not a dangerous element but will rust
very easily, making it useless.
Iron Oxide FeO
These black crystals are used in thermite mixtures. When
ordering, it may be listed as Ferrous Oxide. Black.
Kieselguhr
This is a whitish powder used in dynamites. It is a siliceous
earth, consisting mainly of diatoms. A good grade will absorb
about four times its own weight.
Lactose
Also called milk sugar. This white powder has a sweet taste.
The crude grade will work for smoke formulas.
Lampblack
This is another name for the element, carbon. It is a finely
powdered black dust, resulting from the burning of crude oils.
It is used for special effects in fireworks.
Lead Azide PbN6
This is a poisonous white powder which explodes by heating to
350 degrees or by concussion. The main usage is in primers.
It can be made from Sodium Azide and Lead Nitrate.
Lead Bromate Pb(Bro3)2.H2O
Poisonous, colorless crystals. Pure Lead Bromate is not
explosive unless it is made from precipitated Lead Acetate with
an alkali bromate. Made in this manner, it can be exploded by
rubbing or striking.
Lead Chloride PbCl2
It is available as a white crystalline, poisonous powder which
melts at 501 degrees. It is used in fireworks.
Lead Dioxide PbO2
Also known as Brown Lead Oxide, this dark brown powder is used
as an oxidizer in matches and fireworks. Poisonous.
Lead Nitrate Pb(NO3)2
Available as white or colorless crystals in the technical
grade. The uses include matches and explosives. Poisonous.
Lead Oxide Pb3O4
Also known as Red Lead or Lead Tetroxide. A 95% purity is
desired for matches. Also poisonous.
Linseed Oil
Available in many forms: Brown, boiled, raw and refined. All
are made from the seed of the flax plant. The cheapest form is
suitable for fireworks. Purchase from a paint store.
Lithium Chloride LiCl
The technical grade is sometimes used to add color to fireworks
compositions. Available as a white powder.
Manganese Dioxide MnO2
Used in pyrotechnic mixtures, matches and match box friction
surfaces. Available as a technical grade, black powder. This
oxidizer decomposes at 535 degrees.
Magnesium Mg
This metal is used in a powdered state for brilliancy in flares
and will even burn vigorously underwater.
Mercuric Chloride HgCl2
A white, poisonous powder. Also known as Corrosive Sublimate.
It can be made by subliming Mercuric Sulfate with ordinary
table salt and then purified by recrystallization. The U.S.P.
grade is used for some firework compositions.
Mercuric Oxide HgO
Available in two forms; red and yellow. Both forms give the
same oxidizing effects in fireworks. The technical grade is
suitable.. All forms are poisonous.
Mercuric Oxycyanide HgO.Hg(CN)2
In the pure state it is a violent poison which will explode
when touched by flame or friction.
Mercuric Thiocyanate Hg(SCN)2
A poisonous, white odorless powder used in the making of
Pharaoh"s Serpents. Use the technical grade.
Mercurous Chloride HgCl
Also known as Calomel or Mercuric Monochloride. This white,
non- poisonous powder will brighten an otherwise dull colored
mixture. Sometimes it is replaced by PVC or Hexachlorobenzene
and even Antimony Sulfide, for the same purpose. Note that it
is non poisonous only when it is 100% pure. Never confuse this
chemical with Mercuric Chloride, which is poisonous in any
form.
Mercury Fulminate Hg(ONC)2.H2O
A crystalline compound used in primers, percussion caps,
blasting caps and other detonators. Explodes very easily from
heat or shock.
Methylene Blue C16H18N3SCl
This dark green powder is used for smokes in the technical
grade. Also called Methylthionine Chloride.
Mineral Jelly
Also known as Vaseline, Petrolatum or Petroleum Jelly. This
acts as a stabilizer in fireworks and explosives.
Naphthalene
This is a tar product that you may know better as Moth Flakes.
Only the 100% pure form should be used in making smoke powders.
The melting point is 100 degrees.
Nitric Acid HNO3
Also known as Aqua Fortis. It is a clear, colorless corrosive
liquid, which fumes in moist air. It can react violently with
organic matter such as Charcoal, Alcohol or Turpentine and
consequently must be handled Very carefully. It is available
in three forms: White fuming, Red Fuming and Concentrated (70
to 71%). The latter, with a specific gravity of 1.42, is the
proper grade to buy. Whatever grade, avoid contact with the
fumes or the liquid. Contact with the skin will cause it to
burn and turn yellow. It is used to manufacture many
explosives.
Nitroglycerin C3H5N3O9
A liquid with a sweet burning taste, but do not taste it or it
will produce a violent headache or acute poisoning. It can be
made to explode by rapid heating or percussion. It is used as
an explosive and also to make other explosives.
Nitroguanidine H2NC(NH)NHNO2
A yellow solid made by dissolving Fuanidine in concentrated
Sulfuric Acid and then diluting with water. Dangerous
Explosive.
Nitromethane CH3NO2
An oily, poisonous liquid, which is used as rocket fuel.
Oil of Spike
This is a volatile oil obtained from the leaves of certain
trees. Keep this colorless (or pale yellow) liquid well closed
and away from light. It is used in some fireworks.
Paraffin
This is a white or transparent wax. It is normally sold in a
solid block. You can use it to make the required powder.
Paranitroanaline Red (H2NC6H4)3COH
A dye used in smoke formulas. It dissolves in alcohol and will
melt at 139 degrees. It is also known as P-Aminophenyl.
Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate C5H8N4O12
A high explosive known as PRTN. Besides being an explosive
itself it is used in a detonating fuse called Primacord.
Perchloryl Fluoride ClFO3
A gas under normal air pressure. When brought in contact with
alcohol, explosions have resulted.
Phosphorus P
This element comes in three forms, with three different ways of
reacting. They resemble each other in name only. Red
Phosphorous is the only suitable form for fireworks and
matches. It is a non-poisonous violet-red powder. It will
ignite at 260 degrees. When making a formula containing
Phosphorous, be sure to work with it in a WET STATE. This is a
most dangerous chemical to work with and should be handled only
by the most experienced. Oxidizers have been known to detonate
violently without warning when mixed with Red Phosphorous.
Phosphorous Pentasulfide
Also known as Phosphoric Sulfide. These light yellow crystals
are used in matches.
Phosphorus Trisulfide P2S3
This chemical can catch fire from the moisture that is present
in air, therefore the container should be kept tightly capped.
The technical grade, purchased as grayish-yellow masses, is
used in making matches.
Picric Acid
This is used to bring out and improve the tone of colors in
various fireworks. It is also used to make other chemicals
that are used in fireworks and explosives. Picric Acid can
explode from heat or shock. It is interesting to note what it
is called in other countries: Britain - Lyddite; France -
Melinite; Japan - Shimose.
Plaster of Paris
This is a white powder, composed mostly of Calcium Sulfate. It
is used, by mixing with water, for end plugs in fireworks and
also in some formulas.
Potassium K
A soft silvery metal element. It will react vigorously with
water and several acids. It is not used directly except for
some experiments.
Potassium Chlorate KClO3
This, perhaps, is the most widely used chemical in fireworks.
Before it was known, mixtures were never spectacular in
performance. It opened the door to what fireworks are today.
It is a poisonous, white powder that is used as an oxidizer.
Never ram a mixture containing Potassium Chlorate. Do not
store mixtures which contain this chemical for any great length
of time, as they may explode spontaneously.
Potassium Dichromate K2CR2O7
Also known as Potassium Bichromate. The commercial grade is
used in fireworks and matches. The bright orange crystals are
poisonous. Also used in smokes.
Potassium Ferrocyanide K4Fe(CN)6.3H2O
Lemon yellow crystals or powder which will decompose at high
temperatures. It is used in the manufacture of explosives.
Potassium Nitrate KNO3
Commonly called Saltpeter; this chemical is an oxidizer which
decomposes at 400 degrees. It is well known as a component in
gunpowder and is also used in other firework pieces. Available
as a white powder.
Potassium Perchlorate KClO4
Much more stable than its Chlorate brother, this chemical is a
white or slightly pink powder. It can often substitute for
Potassium Chlorate to make the formula safer. It will not
yield its oxygen as easily, but to make up for this, it gives
off more oxygen. It is also poisonous.
Potassium Picrate C6H2KN3O7
A salt of Picric Acid, this chemical comes in yellow, reddish
or greenish crystals. It will explode when struck or heated.
It is used in fireworks.
Potassium Thiocyanate KCNS
Colorless or white crystals which are used to make the
Pharaoh's Serpent. The commercial grade or pure grade is
suitable.
n-Propyl Nitrate C3H7NC2
Prepared from Silver Nitrate and n-Propyl Bromide and is used
as a jet propellant
Red Gum
Rosin similar to shellac and can often replace it in many
firework formulas. Red gum is obtained from the bark of trees.
Rhodamine B
A basic fluorescent organic pigment also known as Rhodamine
Red. Available in green or red crystals or powder. It is used
in smoke formulas.
Shellac
An organic rosin made from the secretion of insects which live
in India. The exact effect it produces in fireworks is not
obtainable from other gums. The common mixture of Shellac and
Alcohol sold in hardware stores should be avoided. Purchase
the powdered variety, which is orange in color.
Silver Fulminate AgONC
A crystalline salt similar to Mercury Fulminate but more
sensitive. In fact, too sensitive for commercial blasting. It
is used for toy torpedoes and poppers.
Silver Oxide Ag2O
Dark brown, odorless powder. It is potentially explosive and
becomes increasingly more so with time. Keep away from Ammonia
and combustible solvents. The technical grade, which is about
92% pure, is suitable.
Sodium Aluminum Fluoride Na3AlF6
Also known as mineral, Cryolite. It is used in fireworks in
the white powdered form.
Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO3
When a formula calls for this chemical, you can use Baking Soda
(NOT Baking Powder). It is a white, non-poisonous powder.
Sodium Carbonate NaCO3
This white powder is used in fireworks, but not to any great
extent. The anhydrous grade is best.
Sodium Chlorate NaClO3
An oxidizer similar to Potassium Chlorate, although not as
powerful and also with the disadvantage of absorbing water.
Decomposes at 325 degrees.
Sodium Chloride NaCl
This is used in fireworks. You can use the common form, table
salt (or rock salt if made into a powder).
Sodium Nitrate NaNO3
Also known as Chile Saltpeter; very similar to Saltpeter,
(Potassium Nitrate). It is used where large amounts of powder
are needed in fireworks and explosives. It will absorb water
as do other sodium salts.
Sodium Oxalate Na2C2O4
This is not a strong poison, but is poisonous, and you should
not come in contact with it or breathe the dust for any
prolonged period. The technical grade is best for making
yellow fires.
Sodium Perchlorate NaClO4H2O
This chemical is used in fireworks and explosives. It is very
similar to Potassium Perchlorate with the exception that it
will absorb water.
Sodium Peroxide Na2O2
A yellowish-white powder. It can explode or ignite in contact
with organic substances.
Sodium Picrate
Very similar to Potassium Picrate and should be handled with
the same precautions. It is also known under the name of
Sodium Trinitrophenolate.
Sodium Silicate Na2SlO3.9H2O
This chemical, commonly called water glass, is used as a
fireproof glue. It is available in syrupy solution and can be
thinned with water if necessary. When dry it resembles glass,
hence the name. It can, when desired, be thickened with
calcium carbonate, zinc oxide, powdered silica, or fiberglass
(chopped) if extra strength is desired.
Stearin
Colorless, odorless, tasteless, soapy crystal or powder.
Sometimes referred to as Stearic Acid. Purchase the technical
grade, powder. It can often take the place of Sulphur and
Charcoal in fireworks.
Strontium Carbonate SrCO3
Known in the natural state as Strontianite, this chemical is
used for adding a red color to fires. It comes as a white
powder in a pure, technical or natural state.
Strontium Chloride SrCl2.6H2O
A colorless or white granulated chemical used in pyrotechnics.
It will absorb water and is not used often.
Strontium Nitrate Sr(NO3)2
By far the most common chemical used to produce red in flares,
stars and fires. Available in the technical powder grade. An
oxidizer with 45% oxygen and absorbs water.
Strontium Sulfate SrSO4
This does not absorb water as quickly as nitrate and is used
when storage is necessary. In its natural state it is known as
Celestine, which compares to grades used in fireworks.
Sulphur (Sulfur) S
For example type II burns at 250 degrees giving off choking
fumes. Purchase good pyro grades low in acid. Used in many
types of fireworks and explosives.
Sulfuric Acid H2SO4
Also called Oil of Vitriol, it is a clear liquid with the
consistency of a thin syrup. Bottles should be kept tightly
closed as it is a very corrosive and dangerous chemical. It
has a great affinity for water and will absorb it from any
source. The effect can be a charred surface or fire. The
grade used in explosives is 93-98%.
Sulfur Trioxide SO3
This powder will combine with water with explosive violence to
form Sulfuric Acid. If brought in contact with wood flour and
a drop of water is added, a fire will start. It is used to
make some explosives.
Trinitrotoluene (NO2)3C6H2CH3
Commonly known as TNT. The poisonous crystals are colorless in
the pure state. It is more powerful and expensive than
Dynamite. If not confined it will burn like dynamite. Used as
a high explosive and to make others.
Wood Flour
This is merely another name for sawdust or wood meal. It is
used in fireworks and explosives.
Zinc Zn
Of all the forms, only the dust is suitable in the technical or
high purity grade. It is a gray powder used in star mixtures
and for fuel in model rockets.
Zinc Borate 3ZnO.2B2O3
A white amorphous powder used in making smoke formulas. A
relatively safe compound to handle.
Zinc Carbonate ZnCO3
Another white Zinc compound used in some smoke formulas. Also
a safe compound to handle.
Zinc Oxide ZnO
Sometimes called Flowers of Zinc. This is a white or yellowish
powder used in some firework formulas. It has also found use
as a thickening agent in water glass when a stronger pyro paste
is desired.
