6 replies to this topic

[pinguinpanic]

I'm new to making my own explosives, so I thought it would be a smart move to check if my basic Chemistry is right before starting anything.

So I wanted to do something simple with Sodium Chlorate.
Formula 1:
Sodium Chlorate + Aluminum
Na(ClO3) + 2 Al -> NaCl + Al2O3
Filling their molar masses in, I get to the ratio:
40 Sodium Chlorate
60 Aluminum powder

Formula 2:
Sodium Chlorate + Sugar
Na(ClO3) + C12H22O11 -> 8NaCl + 12CO2 + 11H2O
71 Sodium Chlorate
29 Sugar

So, is my theory correct? Or are there other factors I've overseen.

[Arthur Brown]

I strongly suggest you don't redesign the wheel! There are whole formulary out there online and on paper with lists of formulations for various purposes. Please remember that in inorganic mixtures the reaction often disperses the ingredients before the reaction is complete so few reactions follow the expected stoichemetry.

Please also note that chlorates have major incompatibility problems especially with sulphur so there are hazards to avoid.

[icarus]

i would advise save the sodium clorate to kill the weeds its probably 49% fire depressant and it burns with a boring yellow flame that masks any other colours + it will often spontaneously ignite if misused. If you want a really good starting chemical go for potassium nitrate it will make smoke, kno3/ sugar rockets , black powder, then once you have bp if you want a bang master jumping jacks mines and shells. Work carefully and safely. Keep to tried and tested formulations such as weingart and davies but dont trust all you read on the internet .read lots make your own cases etc take time and enjoy!!!

[Arthur Brown]

Even high purity Analar grade chlorate has problems, be very careful.

[pinguinpanic]

Ok, thanks for your help. So I think I'll start with the KNO3 then.

[MDH]

Sodium chlorate can make quite brilliant yellow stars mixed with various binders and PVC, or orange stars with strontium carbonate. It CAN be burned with sugar to make a yellow flame but it is incredibly sensitive to friction.

[BigG]

You should not start making stars with Chlorates. There are about a six dozens posts abot it. NO CHLORATES TO START WITH!