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Science and Technology of Energetic Materials

Vol.71, No.1 (2010)

Research paper

Thermal characterization of pyrotechnic flash compositions
S. P. Sivapirakasam, M. Surianarayanan, and F.Chandrasekaran
p.11-16

Abstract

Thermal characterization of pyrotechnic flash compositions by DSC showed multiple exotherms around 170℃ and 350℃. The flash composition based upon potassium perchlorate/sulphur/aluminum and barium nitrate/sulphur/aluminum was found to be hazardous due to its secondary exothermic reaction with high energy release. The pyrotechnic flash compositions consisting of aluminum as a fuel showed a good cracking characteristics compared to other fuels like magnesium or charcoal. In all the compositions studied, the variation of sulphur concentration in a mixture showed a significant influence in inducing an exothermic reaction. Hence, proper care should be taken in use of sulphur concentration in a mixture during manufacturing.

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Keywords

fireworks, thermal hazards, DSC, flash composition, exothermic reaction.

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