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I apologise for bringing up another forum here, but I know there are members here that are there, as well.

When I tried to access the site, I'm getting a go daddy page, and pop up ads that have zero to do w/the site.

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Thanks.

LIST OF PYRO CHEMICALS

Accroid Resin (Red Gum Yacca Resin, Red Gum, Accaroid Resin, Accroides, Accroides Gum, Gum Accroides, Botany Bay Gum, Black Boy Gum)
CAS: 9000-20-8.
A natural plant extract used as a binder and/or a fuel in many pyrotechnic compositions. Accroides resin is an orange powder derived from the Xanthorrhoea trees that grow on Kangaroo Island off South Australia. The Resin has a complex chemical nature and contains various aromatic substances such as Coumaric Acid, Cinnamon Acid, Benzoic Acid and esters of Coumaric and Cinnamic Acids, Benzoresinotannols, Benzoresorcinol, etc.
Solutions with Alcohol, for example Spirit lacquers, dry fast and make a hard film. These solutions are excellent substitutes for Shellac and Copal varnishes.
Color: Orange; Odor: Distinctive, benzoin-like; Melting point: <100°C; Solvent: Alcohol, Alkali.

Acetone (CH3)2CO
MW: 58.09 g/mol; CAS: 67-64-1. Synonyms: Dimethyl ketone, methyl ketone, 2-propanone, beta-ketopropane, dimethylketal, pyroacetic acid, dimethylformaldehyde, pyroacetic ether.
A Polar solvent. Used to make Nitrocellulose Lacquer. Use nitrile gloves. Colorless liquid with a fragrant, sweet odor. Stable. Incompatible with halogen acids and halogen compounds, strong bases, strong oxidizing agents, caustics, amines and ammonia, chlorine and chlorine compounds, strong acids, nitrosyl compounds. Highly flammable. Readily forms explosive mixtures with air. May be harmful by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption. Irritant. Liquid may cause permanent eye damage (corneal clouding). Contact with skin may cause defatting, leading to irritation. Long-term exposure may cause liver damage. Melting Point: -95° C; Boiling Point: 56° C; Vapor Density: 2.0; Vapor Pressure: 181 mm Hg at 20° C; Specific Gravity: 0.79; Flash Point: -18° C; Explosion Limits: 2.6% - 13.0%; Autoignition Temperature: 538° C; Typical TLV: 750 ppm; Typical OEL: 250 ppm.
Drying Acetone:
For an extra degree of safety, you could dry your acetone. CaCl2, CaSO4, or Na2SO4 would all be acceptable to dry it. There are more, but those are rather OTC items.

Acid
Any substance capable of giving up a proton, a substance that ionizes in solution to give the positive ion of the solvent, a solution having a pH measurement less than 7.

Alcohol
This is a class of organic compounds with the general formula R-OH, where R is an alkyl group made up of carbon and hydrogen and -OH is one or more hydroxyl groups, each made up of one atom of oxygen and one of hydrogen. Generally, with fireworks, the term is applied to Ethyl alcohol (C2H5OH). Although the term Alcohol often refers to Ethanol, the alcohol in alcoholic beverages, the class of Alcohol also includes Methanol and the Amyl, Butyl, and Propyl alcohols, all with one hydroxyl group; the Glycols, with two hydroxyl groups; and Glycerol, with three. Many of the characteristic properties and reactions of alcohols are due to the polarity, or unequal distribution, of electric charges in the C-O-H portion of the molecule.

Alcohol, Denatured
Ethyl alcohol that has a small quantity of Methyl alcohol added, to render it poisonous.

Alcohol, Ethyl C2H5OH
MW: 46.07 g/mol; CAS: 64-17-5; EC: 200-578-6. Synonyms: Ethanol, grain alcohol, fermentation alcohol, alcohol, methylcarbinol, absolute alcohol, absolute ethanol, anhydrous alcohol, alcohol dehydrated, algrain, anhydrol, Cologne spirit, Duplicating Fluid 100 C, ethyl hydrate, ethyl hydroxide, Jaysol, Jaysol S, molasses alcohol, potato alcohol, sekundasprit, spirits of wine, spirit, Synasol, Tecsol.
It is a Polar Solvent. Stable. Substances to be avoided include strong oxidizing agents, peroxides, acids, acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, alkali metals, ammonia, moisture. Forms explosive mixtures with air. Hygroscopic. Appearance: Colorless liquid; Melting Point: -144° C; Boiling Point: 78° C; Specific Gravity: 0.789; Vapor Pressure: 1.59; Flash Point: 14° C (closed cup); Explosion Limits: 3.3% - 24.5%; Autoignition Temperature: 363° C; Water Solubility: Miscible in all proportions.

Alcohol, Methyl CH3OH
MW: 32.04 g/mol; CAS: 67-56-1; EC: 200-659-6. Synonyms: Methanol, carbinol, colonial spirit, Columbian spirit, methylol, methyl hydrate, wood alcohol, wood naphtha, wood spirit, methyl hydroxide, pyroxylic spirit, meths.
It is a Polar Solvent. Stable. May react violently with acids, acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, oxidizing agents, reducing agents and alkali metals. Protect from moisture. Highly flammable. Appearance: Colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. Risk of very serious, irreversible damage if swallowed. Exposure may cause eye, kidney, heart and liver damage. Chronic or substantial acute exposure may cause serious eye damage, including blindness. Irritant. Narcotic. Melting Point: -98° C; Boiling Point: 64.7° C; Vapor Density: 1.1; Vapor Pressure: 97.7 mm at 20° C. Specific Gravity: 0.791; Flash Point: 11° C; Explosion Limits: 6% - 36 %; Autoignition Temperature: 464° C.

Alcohol, Isopropyl CH3CHOHCH3
MW: 60.09; CAS: 67-63-0. Synonyms: 2-hydroxypropane, isopropanol, isopropyl alcohol, iso-propanol, iso-propyl alcohol, IPA, sec-propanol, sec-propyl alcohol, dimethylcarbinol, propan-2-ol, Avantin, rubbing alcohol, Spectrar, Sterisol, Takineocol, Virahol.
A Polar Solvent. Stable. Incompatible with strong acids, strong oxidizing agents, halogens, aluminum, active halogen compounds. Highly flammable. Vapor-air mixtures may be explosive. May react with oxygen in the air to form peroxides. Appearance: Colorless liquid with slight alcohol odor; Melting Point: -89° C; Boiling Point: 82° C; Vapor Density: 2.1; Vapor Pressure: 33 mm at 20° C; Specific Gravity: 0.79; Flash Point: 12° C; Explosion Limits: 2.0 % - 12 %; Autoignition Temperature: 425° C.

Alkali Metals
These are elements in Group Ia of the Periodic Table. In order of increasing atomic number, they are Lithium, Sodium, Potassium, Rubidium, Cesium, and Francium. They are softer than other metals, and have lower melting points and densities. All react violently with water, releasing hydrogen and forming hydroxides. They tarnish rapidly, even in dry air. They never occur uncombined in nature.

Alkaline-Earth Metals
These are elements in Group IIa of the Periodic Table. In order of increasing atomic number, they are Beryllium, Magnesium, Calcium, Strontium, Barium, and Radium. They are softer than most other metals and react readily with water. Their properties are exceeded by the corresponding Alkali Metal.

Alloprene
A Chlorine Donor. See Parlon.

Alum Al2(SO4)3
Common name used to denote Aluminum Sulfate.

Aluminum Al
MW: 26.98; OB: -89; CAS: 7429-90-5.
An element used for brilliancy in the fine powder form. Used as a fuel in many pyro effects. It can be purchased as a fine silvery or gray powder. Stable. Powder is flammable. Reacts very exothermically with halogens. Moisture and air sensitive. Incompatible with strong acids, caustics, strong oxidizing agents, halogenated hydrocarbons.
Melting Point: 660° C; Boiling Point: 2327° C; Specific Gravity: 2.7.

Some Varietys of Aluminum and Their Uses:
1.) Aluminum, atomized spherical. 40-80 mesh uncoated. Used in Glitter formulations. Uses in explosive compositions limited to visual effect. Poor choice for explosive compositions in most cases. Exception is when Al is used to sensitize an explosive formulation such as ANFO. Then the presence of the Al is primary and the size of the particles is secondary.
2.) Aluminum, atomized spherical. 120-325 mesh, 20 micron average, uncoated. Used in Glitter compositions, Fountains Comets, and the like. Same as above regarding uses in explosive compositions.
3.) Alcan X-85, 325 mesh, 32 micron, uncoated. Aluminum, atomized spherical. Commonly used in Go-Getter, Fountain, Comet, Falls, Rains, and etc. formulations.
4.) Alcan X-70, 400 mesh, 14 micron. Aluminum, atomized spherical. Usage similar to #3 above and in composite rocket fuel.
5.) Valimet H-3, 4 micron. Aluminum, atomized spherical. More applications for pyro compositions as size is so small that shape is less of a factor. May be used in explosives with good results.
6.) Aluminum, atomized spherical. 80-325 mesh, uncoated. Commonly used in Go-Getter formulations and Glitter compositions.
7.) Ampal 631, uncoated. -325 mesh, 14-21 microns average. Aluminum, atomized spherical. Commonly used in Glitter and in rocket fuels.
8.) Aluminum, bright flake. -325 mesh, 36 micron flake, coated. Usefulness in explosive compositions fair to very good. Sometimes sold as "fine Flitter" Al.
9.) American Dark. -425 mesh, coated. Aluminum, dark flake. Probably the most widely used American flash aluminum. Usefulness in explosive compositions is very good.
10.) Indian Blackhead, 8 micron, coated. Aluminum, dark flake. A much darker Aluminum than German Blackhead. Reputedly made with the same process and equipment used to make Blackhead in Germany in the 1950s. Performance compares very favorably.
11.) Eckart H5413 Super, 3 micron, coated. Aluminum, dark flake. German Blackhead. The undisputed king of flash aluminum. Undisputed standard of explosive compositions. An important note is that Al powder at the 3 micron level, some of the substance may be sub-micron. In that instance, it may be pyrophoric (may ignite when exposed to air).
12.) Transmet K-102, 10-12 mesh, coated. Produces long hang-time "firefly" effect. Usefulness in explosive compositions is fair to good. Also sold as "Flitter, fine".
13.) Aluminum, flake, 50-80 mesh fine Firefly. Bright, rectangular "needles". Usefulness in explosive compositions is fair to good.
14.) Obron (German), -20 mesh, dark flake, coated. Aluminum, coarse flake, Flitters. Used in Glitter compositions. Usefulness in explosive compositions is poor to fair.
15.) US Aluminum #808, 100-325 mesh, coated. Aluminum, fine flake, Flitters. An Aluminum used for years by many professionals for making silver Flitter Stars And Comets. Usefulness in explosive compositions is fair to good. By strengthening the oxidizer, an explosive comp will function fairly well.
16.) US Aluminum #812, 16-326 mesh, coated. Aluminum, medium flake, Flitters. Usefulness in explosive compositions is fair to good. Fairly good duration of effects. Use in Comets, Fountains, Falls, Rains, etc.
17.) Aluminum, granular. 50-150 mesh. Usefulness in explosive comps is poor. Long hang time for pyro effects.
18.) Obron #10890. This is 6-12 micron medium-dark flake. Others site this as 'German Blue Head'. A good, but costly choice for explosive comps. Danger of pyrophoric combustion.
19.) Eckart 10890, 6 micron coated aluminum flake. German dark pyro aluminum powder. This is a brighter, slightly slower burning aluminum.
20.) "White aluminum was used for flash powder faute de mieux in the old days, but it isn't very sharp flash by comparison with that which can be made using German black or even #809." M Swisher
SOME ADDITIONAL TYPES:
Alcoa 1641 Aluminum, Atomized 15 to 24 microns.
Alcoa 1620 Aluminum, Atomized 25 to 30 microns.
Reynolds 30-XD Uncoated Flake Aluminum 12.6 microns 325 mesh.
US Bronze No. 812 Use When "flitters" are specified.
US Bronze No. 813 Use When "flitters" are specified.

Aluminum Chloride AlCl3
CAS: 7446-70-0.
This chemical must not come in contact with the skin as severe burns can result. The yellowish-white crystals or powder is hygroscopic. Purchase only in the anhydrous grade.

Aluminum Oxide Al2O3
MW: 101.96 CAS: 1344-28-1.
Used in old end plug formulas and as a filler in some adhesive compounds.

Aluminum Sulfate Al2(SO4)3
Alum.

Amber (Konroku)
Fossil vegetable origin and is yellowish-brown in color. It is used in fireworks as a fuel to a small extent. A source of Succinic Acid.

Ammonia NH3
A chemical compound, and a colorless gas with a characteristic pungent, penetrating odor. It is extremely soluble in water. Ammonia solutions are used to clean, bleach, and deodorize; to etch Aluminum; to saponify oils and fats; and in chemical manufacture. Ammonia and Ammonia vapors are irritating- prolonged exposure and inhalation causes serious injury and may be fatal. Water-free ammonia is used in refrigeration. The major use of ammonia and its compounds is as Fertilizers. Ammonia is usually produced by direct combination of nitrogen with hydrogen at high temperature and pressure in the presence of a catalyst.

Ammonium Chloride NH4Cl (Sal Ammoniac)
CAS: 12125-02-9.
Used in white smoke compositions, water ignitable comps, "Safety Explosives". White powder or colorless crystals. Absorbs heat of combustion, considered endothermic.

Ammonium Di(or Bi)chromate (NH4)Cr2O7
MW: 252.18; CAS: 7789-09-5.
Catalyst in Ammonium Nitrate formulas, used in “Volcanoes” as an oxidizer and in smoke comps. Strong oxidizer. Contact with flammable materials may cause fire. Reactions carried out in closed vessels may lead to explosion. Incompatible with organic materials, strong reducing agents. Appearance: Bright orange-red crystals. Melting Point: 170° C; Vapor Density: 8.7 (air = 1); Density (g cm-3): 2.15.

Ammonium Perchlorate ClH4NO4 (AP)
CAS: 7790-98-9.
Oxidizer used in red and blue formulas and in composite rocket propellants. 34% O2 content. Can be made to explode by either heat or shock.

Amyloid
A starch-like cellulose compound.

Aniline Dyes
These are used in smoke powder formulas. They are organic coal tar derivatives, available in many colors. Also suspected or proven carcinogens.

Anthracene C14H10.
CAS: 120-12-7. Synonyms: Anthracin, Paranaphthalene, Green Oil, Tetra Olive N2G.
Can be used for black smoke. A coal tar derivative used for colored smokes. Generally supplied as a green/yellow lumpy powder, but the pure form is a fine blue fluorescent color. Stable. Flammable. Substances to be avoided include strong oxidizing agents, hypochlorites, chromic acid, and fluorine. Appearance: Off-white to pale green crystals; Melting Point: 215°- 219° C; Boiling Point: 340° C; Specific Gravity: 1.25.

Anthraquinone C6H4(CO)2C6H4
Parent substance of the group of dyes that includes Alizarin. Also known as Diphenylene Diketone. Sublimes very easily. Yellow needle-like or prism crystals. Melting Point: 285° C; Boiling Point: 382° C.

Antimony Sb
CAS: 7440-36-0.
Used in ignition comps and white fire compositions, but mainly used in mixes containing Gunpowder and Aluminum to produce the "Glitter" effect. Antimony reacts less violently with oxygen than either Aluminum or Magnesium. Used in some Chlorate-based report comps. A dark gray powder usually about 240 mesh, melting point 630° C. It is also known as Antimony Regulus, found in nature as Stibnite.

Antimony(Tri)Sulfide Sb2S3
MW: 339.72; CAS: 1345-04-6.
There are two types:
1.) Chinese Needle used in colored star comps. ~200 mesh, dark with a definite crystal structure.
2.) Dark Pyro is used in Cracker Ball, Torpedo comps and flash comps, to sharpen the report of firecrackers, salutes, and report comps. 325 mesh, dark, dull, almost black.

AP See Ammonium Perchlorate

Arsenic(Tri)Sulfide As2S3
There are two types-
1.) Red: The common name is Realgar. It is also known as Red Arsenic. It is a poisonous orange-red powder. It has been used in fireworks to impart color to the flames or effects. Used in easily ignited white stars and some smoke compositions. Used with Lampblack to produce the wonderful golden spur like effect of the traditional Flower Pot.
2.) Yellow: The common name is Kings Gold. In some comps, Sb2S3 can be used instead.

Arcenious Oxide As2O3
CAS: 1327-53-3; Synonyms: Arsenic Trioxide, Arsenious Oxide and Arsenious Acid.
A white, highly poisonous powder formerly used in fireworks. Its uses are similar to Paris Green.

Asphaltum
CAS: 12002-43-6.
Dark brown powdered carbon fuel, used in fire comps and as an accessory fuel in some star compositions. Has 10% - 15% fixed Carbon content. Toluene or Turpentine activated binder/sealer.

Atomic Mass - Unit (amu)
A unit of mass equal to 1/12 the mass of the carbon isotope with Mass Number 12, approximately 1.6604 x 10E-24 gram.

Atomic Number
Often represented by the symbol Z, the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. Atoms with the same Atomic Number make up a chemical Element. The Elements are arranged in the Periodic Table in the order of their Atomic Numbers. Atomic Weight Mean (weighted average) of the masses of all the naturally occurring Isotopes of a chemical Element; the Atomic Mass is the mass of any individual isotope. Atomic Weight is usually expressed in Atomic Mass Units (amu); the Atomic Mass Unit is defined as exactly 1/12 the mass of a Carbon-12 atom. Each proton or neutron weighs about 1 amu, and thus the Atomic Mass is always very close to the Mass Number (total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus). Because most naturally occurring Elements have one principal isotope and only insignificant amounts of other isotopes, most Atomic Weights are also very nearly whole numbers.

Atomic Weight
The average weight of an atom of an Element, usually expressed relative to one atom of the Carbon isotope taken to have a standard weight of 12.

Auramine Hydrochloride
It is used in smoke formulas. Yellow flakes or powder that readily dissolve in Alcohol. A certified Biological Stain.

Barium Ba
Various Barium compounds are used in pyrotechnics. A metallic element. It is a soft, silver-white Alkaline-Earth Metal. Its principal ore is Barite.

Barium Carbonate BaCO3
MW: 197.35; CAS: 513-77-9.
Delay agent in glitter comps. Green color agent when the oxidizer is ammonium perchlorate with Chlorine Donor. Acid neutralizer in comps containing Potassium or Barium Chlorates. Used to reduce the burning rate of some compositions. Also used in Matrix Comet comps. White powder. Water Soluble. Melting Point: 1300° C; Density (g cm-3): 4.43.

Barium Chlorate Ba(ClO3)2*H2O (45% Ba)
MW: 304.27; CAS: 13477-00-4.
It is an oxidizer and intense green color agent. Due to the higher light output of chlorate-based comps, barium chlorate is regarded as one of the best color agent for green.
It is friction sensitive. The same precautions should be used as for potassium Chlorate, plus the added toxicity of Barium. Barium Chlorate is used in some star, flash and Bengal fire comps. It has a melting point of 414° C.

Barium Chloride BaCl2 (66% Ba)
CAS: 10361-37-2. Synonyms: Barium Chloride, Barium Dichloride.
Relatively safe green colorant. Makes pinecones, campfires green. Is soluble in water. Melting Point: 963° C. Boiling Point: 1560° C.

Barium Chromate BaCrO4
MW: 253.37; CAS: 10294-40-3.
Green color agent, needs a Chlorine Donor. Yellow powder. Oxidizer used in delay compositions, primarily in rockets.

Barium Fluoride BaF2
White cubic crystals. Melts at ~1370° C.

Barium Nitrate Ba(N03)2 (36.7% O2)
MW: 261.39; CAS: 10022-31-8.
Can be used as a green color agent, silver effects, and oxidizer. Good greens with Magnesium fuel. Although its green colors are weak, it is often used in compositions with Barium Chlorate- to obtain a good green a clorine donor is needed. Also used in the production of Portfire and Lance compositions. It is also present in some flash formulations, especially in reports/salutes. It's an oxidizer in ''dirty flash'' type burst charges. Its use with Aluminum powder produces very bright effects at high temperature or silvery gold effects at lower temperatures. Boric acid should always be used in compositions containing Barium Nitrate and Aluminum. It melts at 500° C. Soluble in water, slightly soluble in Ethanol, slightly soluble in Acetone. The uses and precautions are the same as Potassium Nitrate.

Barium Oxalate BaC2O4
A white powder used as a green pyro colorant in comps containing Magnesium.

Barium Oxide BaO
MW: 153.34; CAS: 1304-28-5.
Used in some flash comps.

Barium Peroxide BaO2 (81% Ba)
MW: 169.33; CAS: 1304-29-6.
Used in some photoflash comps, as a catalyst in Thermite reactions and in some tracer comps. Due to its highly reactive nature, exothermally decomposes in moisture, therefore could heat up compositions containing Aluminum.

Barium Stearate Ba(C18H35O2)2
MW: 704.28; CAS: 6865-35-6.

Barium Sulfate BaSO4 (59% Ba)
MW: 233.39; CAS: 7727-43-7.
High temperature oxidizer used in chuffing rocket fuels. Used as a green color agent, a high temperature oxidizer in strobe mixtures, sometimes as a delay agent and in glitter and firefly formulations.

Bentonite (Sodium Aluminum Silicate)
Used to form Nozzles for Black Powder rockets, Fountains, Drivers, etc. See Clay.

Benzene C6H6
MW: 78, OB: -308.
A Non-Polar solvent. Used in some Perchlorate-based report comps. Colorless, flammable toxic liquid with a pleasant aromatic odor. Parent substance of the Aromatic Compounds. Derivative compounds include Toluene, Phenol, and Aniline. Obtained from coal tar and petroleum.

Benzene Hexachloride C6H6Cl6
MW: 290.828 g/mol; CAS: 58-89-9.
Originally the insecticide, 'Lindane'. Used in strobe and twinkling green stars. Is a Chlorine Donor.

Benzoic Acid C6H5COOH
CAS: 65-85-0. Synonyms: Benzene carboxylic acid, benzeneformic acid, benzenemethanoic acid, carboxybenzene, dracylic acid, phenyl carboxylic acid, phenylformic acid, Retarder BA, Retardex, Salvo liquid, Salvo powder, Tennplas.
Used to make metallic Benzoates. White powder or crystals. Melting Point: 122o C; Boiling Point: 249° C; Vapor Density: 4.2 (air = 1); Density (g cm-3): 1.32; Flash Point: 121° C (closed cup).

Beryllium Be
CAS: 7440-41-7.
A metallic element. The silver-gray, Alkaline Earth Metal is light, strong, high melting, and resistant to corrosion. It is used as a window material for X-ray tubes and as a shield and a moderator in nuclear reactors.

BHC See Benzene Hexachloride.
A Chlorine Donor.

Bismuth Subcarbonate (BiO)2CO3
A safer substitute for Lead Tetraoxide in Crackling Stars (Dragons Eggs).

Bismuth Trioxide Bi2O3
Light yellow powder used as a safer alternative to Lead Tetraoxide in Crackling Microstars (Dragons Eggs).

Borax B4Na2O7
CAS: 1303-96-4. Synonyms: Antipyonin, boricin, disodium tetraborate decahydrate, Three Elephant, Tronabor, sodium pyroborate decahydrate, sodium tetraborate decahydrate, sodium borate 10-Hydrate, sodium borate decahydrate, sodium biborate decahydrate. Available OTC.
Green color agent. Flame retardant. Appearance: White crystals; Melting Point: 75o C; Boiling Point: 320° C; Density (g cm-3): 1.73; Water Solubility: Moderate.

Boric Acid H3BO3
CAS: 10043-35-3; EC: 233-139-2. Synonyms: Basilit B, boracic acid, orthoboric acid, boron trihydroxide, Borofax, Bortrac, Dia Flea-Mate, Flea Prufe, trihydroxyborane, trihydroxyborone, hydrogen orthoborate, NCI-C56417, sassolite, Acidum boricum.
Used to prevent runaway reactions in comps containing Aluminum or Magnesium and a Nitrate. Stable. Non-flammable. Reacts violently with Potassium, Acid Anhydrides. Incompatible with water, strong bases, alkali metals. Moisture sensitive. Hygroscopic. Found OTC as a home insecticide. Water Solubility: 63.5 g/l at 30° C; Appearance: Colorless or white odorless crystalline solid; Melting Point: 171° C; Boiling Point: ca. 300° C (decomposes); Specific Gravity: 1.44; Vapor Pressure: 2.6 mm Hg at 20° C; Water Solubility: 63.5 g/l at 30° C.

Boron B
MW: 10.81; CAS: 7440-42-8.
Used in some photoflash comps. The impure or 'amorphous' boron is a brownish-black powder, used in pyrotechnic stars and flares to provide a distinctive green color, and in rockets as an igniter.

Brass Cu + Zn
This is an alloy of Copper and Zinc. May also contain a small percentage of Tin. Makes blue colors.

Cab-O-Sil SiO2
Used as an anti-caking agent. Mill .5% to 1% with chemicals to make free flowing. Sometimes used in flash to "fluff up" the comp. Four ounces fills a half gallon container.

Calcium CaCO3
MW: 100.09; CAS: 1317-65-3.
Used in some photoflash comps.

Calcium Carbide CaC2
CAS: 75-20-7.
It is the fuel used in toy cannons. These grayish, irregular lumps are normally packed in waterproof and airtight metal containers. Mixed with water it forms Acetylene Gas. Incompatible with moisture, water, strong oxidizing agents, alcohols, hydrogen chloride, magnesium. Harmful if inhaled, swallowed and in contact with skin. Contact with skin may cause severe irritation or burns. Appearance: Gray or black solid with a garlic-like odor. Melting Point: 2300° C; Vapor Density: 2.2 (air = 1); Density (g cm-3): 2.22; Water Solubility: Decomposes. Reacts violently with water, liberating highly flammable Acetylene Gas.

Calcium Carbonate CaCO3
MW: 100.09; CAS: 1317-65-3. Synonyms: Limestone, marble, calcite, chalk, carbonic acid calcium salt, blackboard chalk.
It is used for Phosphorous Torpedoes, as an acid absorber in fireworks, as an orange coloring agent, and in some photoflash comps. Can be used as a filler when mixed with sodium silicate to create a fireproof adhesive. Stable. Incompatible with acids, Fluorine, Ammonium salts, Alum. This occurs as the mineral Calcite.

Calcium Fluoride CaF2
Use in smokeless firework mixtures and some photoflash comps. It is a white powder, also known as Fluorspar.

Calcium Hydride
Used in some photoflash comps.

Calcium Nitrate Ca(NO3)2*4H2O
MW: 236.13; CAS: 13477-34-4.

Calcium Oxalate CaC2O4+H2O
MW: 146.02; CAS: 5794-28-5.
Gives depth of color to mixtures of Sodium Nitrate and Magnesium. Sometimes used in "glitter effect" compositions and magnesium flares.

Calcium Phosphide Ca3P2
It is used in signal fires. This compound, which comes as gray lumps, must be kept dry. Upon contact with water it will form the toxic flammable gas, Phosphine.

Calcium Resinate
Used in some tracer comps.

Calcium Silicide CaSi2
MW: 96.25; CAS: 7440-70-2 and 7440-21-3.
A dark gray/black crystalline powder used in hot primes. Generates a molten slag for passing fire to compositions that do not ignite easily. Dangerous when wet. Used in smoke compositions and in self-heating compositions as a fuel to heat cans when camping.

Calcium Stearate Ca(C18H35O4)2
MW: 740.28; CAS: 1592-23-01.

Calcium Sulfate CaSO4 (Plaster of Paris)
High temperature oxidizer in orange color and strobe comps.

Calomel (Mercurous Chloride, Mercuric Monochloride)
Chlorine Donor. Used in some blue comps. This can brighten an otherwise dull colored mixture. Sometimes PVC or Hexachlorobenzene replaces it.

Camphor C10H16O
Used in explosives and fireworks. A Ketone found in the wood of the Camphor tree, native to Taiwan and a few of the Southern states of the US. An ingredient used in ping pong balls.

Carbon Black See Lampblack.

Carbon C
EC: 231-153-3; CAS: 7440-44-0. Synonyms: Acticarbone, activated charcoal, AG3, AG5, Amoco PX21, Anthrasorb, AR 3, Art 2, decolorizing carbon, Grosafe, Acticarbone, XE 340, Columbia LCK, diamond, graphite, charcoal, Supersorbon S1, numerous other trade names.
Combustible. Highly flammable in powdered form. Carbon is a non-metallic element, known since ancient times. Pure carbon forms are Amorphous Carbon (found in Charcoal, Coal, Coke, Lignite,and Peat) and the crystals; graphite and diamond. Carbon has seven isotopes. Carbon-12 is the basis for Atomic Weights; Carbon-14, with a half-life of 5,730 years, is used to trace chemical reactions and to date geologic and archaeological specimens. Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Appearance: Gray solid; Melting Point: 3652° C; Vapor Pressure: Negligible at 20° C; Specific Gravity: Varies with physical form.

Castor Oil
This is used in some compositions to reduce the sensitiveness and to waterproof the mixture. Yellow colored oil. Used as a protective coating for Magnesium in flare compositions. It also can act as a binder and lubricant in the hydraulic pressing of compositions.

Charcoal C
MW: 12.01; CAS: 1333-86-4.
A non-volatile residue obtained when organic matter, usually wood, is heated in the absence of air. A form of Carbon, it is used in fireworks and explosives as a reducing agent. Usually a black powder, which comes in a variety of different grades, although dark brown and white are possible. Its reactivity is dependent on the type of wood used.
Willow, Alder, White Maple and Dogwood are the traditional woods used but a mixture of hardwoods are also commonly used. Black Willow is popular for making "fast" Black Powder. Coarse hardwood Charcoal makes long lasting effects. Bark and Pine Charcoal are also used for their effects. It can be made as fine as dust (Air Float) up to a coarse powder. Charcoal yields more heat per volume than wood. Finely divided Charcoal, with its porous structure, efficiently filters the absorption of gases and of solids from solution (Activated Charcoal).

Charcoal, Air Float.
Extremely lightweight, fine gray/black powder used in Black Powder and many other pyro compositions.

Chlorine Cl2
CAS: 7782-50-5.
This is a color enhancing chemical that is supplied by Chlorine Donor chemicals in pyro comps.

Chlorine Donor
A color enhancing agent added to a color composition to increase the intensity of the color. The Chlorine forms metal-Cl species in the flame which emit strongly in the visible part of the spectrum. It is thought that Potassium Chlorate/Perchlorate as well as Ammonium Perchlorate may play a similar, though diminished, role. Needed to produce good color when using Barium, Strontium and Copper salts to color flames.
Some examples are:
Alloprene
Ammonium Chloride (66%)
Benzene Hydrochloride
Chlorowax (30%-70%)
Dechlorane (78%)
Hexachlorobenzene (75%)
Hexachloroethane (90%)
Lindane (73%)
Paradichlorobenzene
Parlon (64%-68%)
Pergut, PVC (57%)
Saran (73%)
Sculpy Clay
Starpol, as well as other metallic Chlorides.

Chlorowax C24H43Cl 7
Cream colored powder used as a Chlorine Donor (70% Chlorine). Solvents are xylene, acetone and alcohol.

Chrysoidine
It is used in smoke formulas. An organic dye available as a red-brown powder.

Clay
It can be purchased as kitty litter or in the powdered form. It is used dry for Chokes, Nozzles and plugs for sealing firework cases. It is usually rammed dry. Additives such as Grog may be used to improve the "grip" of the nozzle or plug to the inside of the tube.

CMC (Cellulose Gum) See Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose.
White powder used as a binder or thickening agent. Use 1% with other water soluble binder or 2-3% by itself.

Collodion
This is a solution of Nitrocellulose in Ether or Acetone, sometimes with the addition of Alcohols. Its generic name is Pyroxylin Solution. It is toxic and highly flammable. As the solvent evaporates, it dries to a celluloid-like film.

Colophonium C20O2H29
An Alcohol soluble resin used as a binder. It is expensive and doesn't have much adhesion capacity. Sources: Artist paint stores often sell colophonium. It is also used by violin players, for the treatment of wooden floors.

Colophony See Rosin.
Turpentine rosin.

Confectioners Sugar (10X Sugar) See Sucrose.
Can be used with an oxidizer such as potassium nitrate to create smoke devices or rocket fuel. Sometimes used in blue color comps. Will slow the burn rate of comps that may be too fast/ hot for good color production.

Copal Gum See Gums.

Copper Cu
MW: 63.546; CAS: 7440-50-8.
Fuel and blue color agent. When added to an Ammonium Perchlorate composition, will give a nice blue flame. ~5% in the formula should be enough. A reddish powder. Copper powder reacts with Ammonium Perchlorate in the presence of H2O. Stable. Incompatible with strong acids, active halogen compounds, chlorine, fluorine, iodine, bromine, and ammonia. May react explosively with strong oxidizing agents. When decomposition occurs it can generate heat and ammonia gas. Melting Point: 1083° C; Boiling Point: 2595° C; Specific Gravity: 8.92.

SOLUABILITY of COMMON COPPER SALTS
Copper Salt...........................Solubility....................%Cu
Copper Metal .........................Insoluble...................100.00%
Copper Oxide.........................Insoluble....................79.88%
Copper Oxychloride................Insoluble.....................59.51%
Copper Carbonate...................Insoluble.....................57.47%
Copper Acetoarsenite..............Insoluble.....................25.07%
Copper(I)Chloride...........Very Slightly Soluble............64.18%
Copper(II)Fluoride...............Slightly Soluble..............62.58%
Copper(II)Benzoate.............Slightly Soluble...............20.78%
Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate...Very Soluble.................39.81%

Copper Acetoarsenate (CuO)3.As2O3.Cu(C2H302)2 3CuO. -OR- As2O3+Cu(CH3CO2)2 -OR- [Cu3As2O3Cu(C2H3O2) 2]
(Paris Green, Spring Green, Imperial Green, Brilliant Green, Kings Green, Schweinfurt Green, Emerald Green, Parrot Green, Vienna Green, and Mitis Green).
The best blue color agent but rarely used because it is so poisonous. It comes as a mint green fine powder. Insoluble in water, soluble in acid and ammonia solutions. When used in a Potassium Chlorate formula with a clean-burning fuel such as Shellac, it produces the best blues and purples next to the Ammonium Perchlorate comps. Paris Green does not decompose Chlorates.

Copper Ammonium Chloride Cu(NH3)4Cl2
Used in blue fire comps. Complete solubility in H20.

Copper Ammonium Nitrate
Used in some blue comps.

Copper Ammonium Sulfate CuSO4 * 4NH3 * H2O
MW: 245.75.
Used in blue Bengal Fire. Very soluble in water with deep-blue color; almost insoluble in alcohol. Dark-blue, crystalline powder; ammonia odor; loses NH3 on exposure to air.

Copper Arsenate CuHAsO3 (Schloss or Schlees Green)
It produces a blue flame, but it is not as intense as Paris Green. As it also the problem of being somewhat hygroscopic; this can present ignition problems. Does not decompose Chlorates. Appearance: Lighter than Paris Green with a yellowish cast. Fine powder, insoluble in water, soluble in ammonia.

Copper Benzoate Cu(C6H5COO)2
Fuel and blue color agent for stars, comets and rocket propellant. Sources: Copper benzoate is easily prepared at home from a solution of sodium or potassium benzoate and a soluble copper salt. When these solutions are added together a green precipitate of copper benzoate forms. This is filtered, thoroughly rinsed with hot water and left to dry.

Copper(II)Carbonate CuCO3•Cu(OH)2 (Basic Copper Carbonate)
MW: 221.12; CAS: 12069-69-1. Occurs in two forms:
1.) Malachite CuCO3 Cu(OH)2
Appearance: Dark greenish powder, consisting of monoclinic crystals. This is usually made by precipitation. It is considered the safest for use in Ammonium Perchlorate blues, or where the composition produces a high temperature and HCl is produced in the flame (Shimizu). When used in Perchlorate compositions the addition of a Chlorine Donor will produce an acceptable blue. Malachite does not decompose Chlorates.
2.) Azurite 2CuCO3.Cu(OH)2
Appearance: Light to dark blue. This is not as a rule used in the fireworks trade. It is instead used in the paint industry. Azurite does not decompose Chlorates.

Copper Chlorate Cu(ClO3)2.6H2O (Cupric Chlorate)
Used as an oxidizer and blue colorant. A poison.

Copper(I)Chloride CuCl (Cuprous Chloride)
Greenish-blue powder used as a blue color agent. Also makes a relatively safe coloring agent for campfires, pinecones, and fireplace logs.

Copper(II)Chloride CuCl2
CAS No: 7447-39-4; EC No: 231-210-2. Synonyms: Cupric chloride, copper bichloride, copper (2+) chloride, copper dichloride, copper chloride, cupric dichloride.
The color made from this is a better blue then Copper Carbonate. An excess of Chlorine has to be present to ensure color production. Stars made from this can be hard to dry. If the flame is in the presence of too much oxygen, it will burn above 1200° C, in the 525-nanometer range, and slip from blue into the color green. Also used as a catalyst for Whistle Mix and other fuels. Appearance: Light yellowish green, small crystals like sugar. Reacts violently with Potassium and Sodium. Contact with Acetylene may form explosive Acetylides. Hygroscopic. Copper Chloride does decompose Chlorates. Stable. Melting Point: 620° C; Specific Gravity: 3.386.

Copper Chromite CuCr2O4
Catalyst for Whistle Mix and composite rocket fuels containing Ammonium Perchlorate. Also found in a white sparkler comp.

Copper(II)Fluoride CuF2 (Cupric Fluoride)
Bluish powder used as a blue color agent and halogen donor (flame color enhancer).

Copper Nitrate Cu NO3 (Cupric Nitrate)
CAS No: 3251-23-8.
Blue crystals. Blue colorant, oxidizer. Hygroscopic.

Copper(II)Oxide CuO (Black Copper Oxide, Cupric Oxide)
MW: 79.54; CAS: 1317-38-0.
Used in starter compositions, blue colors and ignition comps. It is used to produce a pleasing blue in Perchlorate formulas. Used in some flash comps. It is not hygroscopic, and it is relatively stable. Copper Oxide does not decompose Chlorates. Appearance: Black, fine powder. "Copper Oxide emits a series of bands in the red region, and this reddish emission is often seen at the top of the blue flame" (Conkling).
"We have used Copper Oxide in Potassium Perchlorate mixtures with Magnalium, and have had safe and reproducible blues that store well." (M. Swisher rec.pyro)

Copper Oxychloride CuCO3*Cu(OH)2
MW; 427.2; CAS; 1332-65-6. Dicopper Chloride Trihydroxide; Cupric oxide chloride; Copper(II)Oxychloride; Copper Oxychloride; Vitigran blue. Decomposes at 140° C.
Comes as a pale mint green powder. It makes a nice blue color but not noticeably better than Copper Oxide. It is the best catalyst for potassium benzoate whistle comp. Soluble in acids and Ammonium Hydroxide, but not in water, and does decompose Chlorates.

Copper Sulfate CuSO4 5H2O (if Hydrated) (Copper(II)Sulfate, Cupric Sulfate, Blue Vitroil).
CAS: 7758-99-8 (Pentahydrate) or 7758-98-7 (Anhydrous).
Used in blue Bengal Fire comps. This copper salt was used in older pyrotechnic chemistry. It has a tendency to oxidize and produce Sulfuric Acid. Stars made with this can be hard to light (Weingart). Appearance: Blue powder, dark blue crystals. Copper Sulfate does decompose Chlorates.

Copper(II)Sulfide CuS
Blue color agent. Requires drying to a chalky white color.

Cryolite Na3AlF6 (Greenland Spar) See Sodium Aluminum Fluoride.
Also known as sodium fluoaluminate, this white or olive colored powder can be used to produce a very good yellow flame. Can sometimes be found in ceramic supply stores.

Cupric Ammonium Sulfate
Used in blue fire comps.

Cupric Oxide CuO See Copper (II) Oxide

Cuprous Chloride CuCl
Used in some blue comps.

Cuprous Oxide Cu2O (Copper I Oxide)
MW: 143.09; CAS: 1317-39-1.

Decaborane B10H14
This chemical is classed as a flammable solid and is used for rocket fuels. It will remain stable indefinitely at room temperature.

Dechlorane C10Cl12
CAS: 13560-89-9. Chlorine Donor (78%).

Dexiglue
A mixture of PVA and Dextrin. No exact formula exists; it is made by "eye" to suit the purpose.

Dextrin (C6H10O5)*nH2O -OR- [C6H10O5]
CAS: 9004-53-9.
Beige colored crystalline powder. Produced from the partial hydrolysis of starch. Generally used as a binder in fireworks and to make Pulverone, although sometimes used as a cooling agent. It has very good adhesive properties, although no more than about 5% should be added to a dry star mix as it does tend to be rather hydroscopic after mixing with water.

DI Water
Deionised water, having had all the ions removed.

di-Buphtalate
Used in some Bengal Fire comps.

Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
Liquid plasticizer/elastomer. Used for composite rocket fuels.

Dioctyl Adipate (DOA)
Liquid Plasticizer/Elastomer. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

Dioctyl Maleate (DOM)
Liquid Plasticizer/Elastomer. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

Dioctyl Phthalate (DOP)
Liquid Plasticizer/Elastomer. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

Dioctyl Sebacate (DOS)
Liquid Plasticizer/Elastomer. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

Double-Based Propellant (Smokeless Powder)
A propellant whose principle active ingredients are Nitrocellulose and Nitroglycerin. Can be used to make nitrocellulose lacquer when dissolved in acetone.

DTBHQ Anti Oxidant (2,5-Ditertiary-Butylhydroquinone)
Fine powder added to polymer systems as an anti-oxidant. Used in some composite rocket motor fuels.

Dyes
Organic products used in the production of Smokes.

Egyptian Lacquer
Protective coating to prevent oxidation. Used in Tracer manufacturing.

Epon 815 Resin/ Curing Agent "U"
Used in Ammonium Perchlorate-based composite rocket fuel.

Epoxy Resin DER-331 (Bisphenol A/Epichlorohydrin)
Mix 50/50 with Versamid 140 for a room temperature epoxy cure. Also used as a curative for PBAN, F17-80 and HCLB4 resins. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate
Acrylic Monomer/Plasticizer. Used in composite rocket motor fuel.

Ethanol C2H5OH (Ethyl Alcohol)
CAS: 64-17-5.
A Polar Solvent for organic fuels and Binders. Flammable.

Ferrotitanium Fe + Ti
Alloy of Iron and Titanium (typically 60/40), used to create bright yellow/white sparking displays in rocket fuels, Fountains, Stars and Comets. Different ratios of Fe/Ti are available, although generally all burn with a much more silver flame than Fe alone.

Fluoroelastomer
Used in some flash comps and in some composite rocket motor fuels.

Formrez F17-80, Propellant Grade (CTPB)
Used in composite rocket motor fuel. Cures with DER-331 epoxy. Viscous liquid.

Fomrez Sul-4 (Dibutyltin Dilaurate)
Used in composite rocket motor fuel. High speed catalyst. Use one drop per pound of HTPB resin composite mixture to speed cure time.

Genchlor GC 700-200
Strobe compound used in composite stars.

Gilsonite (Asphaltum)
Dark brown powder. A Carbon fuel.

Glass Powder
Has been used in match head and friction ignition compositions.

Graphite C (Plumbago)
MW: 12.01; CAS: 7782-42-5.
Used to opacify (blacken) rocket fuel grain. The Graphite prevents infrared energy from penetrating the grain causing it to explode. Also used in magnesium-based Flash Powder, tracer comp, ignition primes and photoflash comps. Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, alkali metals. Combustible. A very fine black/gray powder, greasy and soft, with a metallic luster. It is a good conductor of electricity. Used mainly in compositions when pressing into various molds to ease their release. Also used as a polish on commercial gunpowder grains. Graphite, also known as Plumbago or Black Lead is a mineral.

Greek Alphabet
Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon, Zeta, Eta, Theta, Upsilon, Iota, Phi, Kappa, Chi, Lambda, Psi, Mu, Omega.

Greek Fire
Used in ancient combat, Greek fire was an early use of Pyrotechnics. It comprised sticky long-burning composition usually fired from catapults.

Green Man
The symbol of the Pyrotechnics Guild International depicting the leaf covered man.

Green Mix
It is a rough mixture of Potassium Nitrate, Charcoal and Sulfur in the correct proportions for Black Powder, but is not milled, pressed or corned. It burns slower than Black Powder.

Grog
Used in nozzles and plugs to give a 'bite' so they stick to the wall of the rocket motor.

Gum Arabic
CAS: 9000-01-5.
Water-soluble, dried, gummy resin from tropical trees. It is available as flakes, fragments and powder. It is used as a binder and adhesive in firework formulas.

Gum, Cellulose See CMC.

Gum Copal (K.D. Gum)
Light tan, tropical tree resin. Used as a fuel and binder. Solvent is alcohol.

Gum, Guar (Propyl Guar)
Water-soluble binder, slow drying. Skins over, increasing drying rate.

Gum, Red (Yacca Resin, Red Gum, Acaroid Resin, Accaroid Resin, Accroides, Accroides
Gum, Gum Accroides, Botany Bay Gum, Black Boy Gum)
CAS: 9000-20-8.
A natural plant extract used as a binder and/or a fuel in many pyrotechnic compositions. Accroides resin is an orange powder derived from the Xanthorrhoea trees that grow on Kangaroo Island off South Australia. The Resin has a complex chemical nature and contains various aromatic substances such as Coumaric Acid, Cinnamon Acid, Benzoic Acid and esters of Coumaric and Cinnamic Acids, Benzoresinotannols, Benzoresorcinol, etc.
Solutions with Alcohol, for example Spirit lacquers, dry fast and make a hard film. These solutions are excellent substitutes for Shellac and Copal varnishes.
Color: Orange; Odor: Distinctive, benzoin-like; Melting point: <100°C; Solvent: Alcohol, Alkali.

Gum, Tragacanth
CAS: 9000-65-1.
Water and Hydrogen Peroxide soluble binder and adhesive.

Guncotton
Nitrocellulose containing 13% to 17% of Nitrogen.

Gunpowder
Fireworkers prefer the term Black Powder although chemically and physically the two are the same. Gunpowder upon combustion produces about 43% gas, 56% solids and 1% water vapor.

H-3 or H3 Comp
Used as a Burst Charge for aerial fireworks shells. It consists of:
Potassium Chlorate....77
Charcoal..................23
Dextrin...................+2

HC-434 Resin (CTPB, Carboxyl Terminated Polybutadiene)
Used in composite rocket fuel. Uses DER-331 epoxy to cure.

HC Mixture
Solid non-persistent screening smoke that, when burning, produces a grayish white smoke having a sharp, acrid odor; toxic if released in sufficient quantities in enclosed places; used in bombs, shells, grenades and smoke pots. The smoke is cool burning as contrasted with White Phosphorous and tends to cling to the earth. The military version is the M4A2 package (a 48 lb. Smoke Pot). Obscuring Smoke HC contains 41.9% Chlorine and 37.5% Zinc.

HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)
A useful material for Mortars. Belling rather than fragmentation of HDPE Mortars tends to occur with failure of normal (not Salute) shells.

Heavy Metals
A general term given to the ions of metallic elements such as Copper, Zinc, Chromium, and Aluminum. Exposeure should be limited to avoid health issues.

Hemp Coal
Fuel similar to Paulownia Coal used in some star comps.

Hexachlorobenzene C6Cl6 (HCB)
Used in green strobe formulations. Used as a chlorine donor in color mixtures, flares. Fine, white needles which melt at 229° C. Better than PVC (C. Wilson).

Hexachloroethane C2Cl6 (Carbon Hexachloride)
MW: 236.74 CAS: 67-72-1.
Used as a Chlorine Donor (89%) in firework compositions, also in white smokes, and sometimes used as a high temperature oxidizer. White crystalline powder, with slight camphor-like smell, very volatile at room temperature.

Hexamine C6H12N4 (Hexamethylenetetramine, Methenamine, Urotropin, Aminoform, Crystamin, Formin)
Used as an accessory fuel, often in blue star comps. Burns with a yellow/orange flame. Sometimes used in indoor firework formulas. Found OTC as a camping supply for cooking. The manufacturing process is based on the reaction of formaldehyde and ammonia in acqueous solution.

Hexane Dioladipate Pthalate
A saturated polyester used in composite rocket fuel.

HTPB (CH2-CH=CH-CH2)n(OH)2. See Polybutadiene R45 Resin.
Elastomeric resin used in composite rocket fuel. Hydroxy-Terminater Polybutadine, more commonly referred to as HTPB, is a yellowish flammable liquid most commonly used as a polymer binder in AP/AN solid rocket propellants. RT-45M or the non mil-spec R45HTLO type resin are often used, which requires a seperate curing component.
HTPB is also used commercialy to make adhesives, modify rubbers, sealants and other types of coatings.

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC or Cellosize)
Used in some photoflash comps. Water soluble binder, partially soluble in ethanol or acetone.

HX-878 Tepanol
Liquid bonding agent and curative. Cross links the polymer into the crystalline oxidizer in composite rocket propellants.

Indigo
Is used for making smoke comps. A dark blue crystalline powder that is also a commercial dye.

Iron Fe
MW: 55.85; CAS: 7439-89-6.
Gray metallic powder used to create yellow non-branching sparks, mainly in Sparklers, Comets, Stars and Fountains. Treat with Tung or Linseed oil to prevent rust.

Iron(II)Oxide (ferrous oxide, FeO, also known as wüstite in its mineral form)
The black-colored powder in particular can cause explosions as it readily ignites.

Iron(II,III)Oxide, Black Fe3O4
A high-temperature oxidizer in Thermite or a catalyst for Whistle Mix. Iron(II,III)oxide or ferrous ferric oxide (Fe3O4): Better known as the black-colored mineral magnetite or lodestone also seen on Mars. Also a main source of iron, magnetite is an iron ore. This form of iron oxide tends to occur when iron corrodes underwater, and so is often found inside tanks or below the waterline of ships.

Iron(III)Oxide, Red Fe2O3 (Rust, rouge, hematite)
MW: 159.78; CAS: 1309-37; EC: 215-168-2.
Used as a burn rate catalyst in rocket fuel and as an oxidizer in Thermite, incendiary compositions and ignition comps. Iron(III)Oxide or Ferric Oxide (Fe2O3): Known in its natural state as rouge or hematite (also 'haematite'), but also purified for use as a coating in magnetic audio and computer media. In a dry or alkaline environment it can cause passivation and inhibits rust. It is a component of rust.
Melting Point: 1565° C; Specific Gravity: 5.24.

Iron Sulfide FeS2 (Marcasite, Pyrite)
When finely powdered, it is Pyrophoric.

Isonate 143L (Diphenylmethane 4,4 Diisocyanate)
High speed HTPB room temperature curative used in some composite rocket motors.

Isophorone Diisocyanate
An Isocyanate and HTPB curative, generally requiring heat for quick cure. Used in some composite rocket motors.

Kaolin
A type of clay, can be used for Nozzles.

Kauri Powder
Used in red fire comps.

KP Comp
A composition originally developed by Shimizu. Used for aerial fireworks shell burst comp, and as a prime:
Potassium Perchlorate.......70
Charcoal.........................18
Sulfur.............................12
Dextrin..........................+5
The dextrin is used to make it stick to the burst carrier, usually puffed rice or hulls. More "kick" than BP, helps when there is not enough room in the shell for enough BP to do the trick. Best for smaller shells. Can be used for up to 4" shells, and add 1g of flash for 3" ball shells, 1-1/2 g of whistle for 3" canisters.
NOTE: The preceeding is an estimation/generalization only!)

Kraft Paper
A strong paper about the color of a super market grocery bag used for pasting shells and for capping. There are two varities: Virgin and Recycled.
30 through 70 pound Kraft has .001” per “pound”, i.e. 30# = .030” thickness.

Kyanite 3Al2O3*3SiO2 (Aluminum Silicate, Cyanite, Disthene, Rhoetizite)
Tan powder. Mixed with clay like Bentonite, it strengthens rocket, fountain and driver nozzles.

Lactose C12H22O11•H2O (milk sugar)
MW: 360.32; CAS: 10039-26-6.
White powder used in smoke compositions, some blue comps and as a fuel.

Laminac 4116
Polyester resin binder for tracer comps. Used in Flare Candles, red metallic- fueled stars, composite rocket fuel. Laminac binding excludes moisture, which is corrosive to magnesium. It is also a secondary fuel. Its oxygen demand is high compared to the magnesium, so it serves to regulate the burning speed. Mono-saturated styrene resin is known as "fiberglass resin". 1-2% Lupersol DDM (methyl ethyl ketone peroxide in dimethyl phthalate) is used as the curing agent for Laminac 4116.

Lampblack C
MW: 12.01; CAS: 7782-42-5.
It is a finely-powdered, light-weight black dust, resulting from the burning of crude oils. Produces long lasting and finely dispersed sparks. Can blacken rocket grain. Very "dirty" to work with.

Lampblack, Conductive (Ethyne or Acetylene Black)
Used for Bridgeless E-Matches.

Lead Chloride PbCl2
It is a poor Chlorine Donor for blue and green comps. It is a white, crystalline, poisonous powder that melts at 501° C.

Lead Chromate PbCrO4
MW: 323.19; CAS: 7758-97-6.

Lead Dioxide PbO2 (Brown Lead Oxide)
MW: 239.2; CAS: 1309-60-0.
This dark brown powder is used as an oxidizer in matches and fireworks.

Lead Nitrate Pb(NO3)2
MW: 331.23; CAS: 10099-74-8.
The uses include friction ignition comps and matches. White or colorless crystals. Poisonous.

Lead Oxide Pb3O4 (Red Lead, Lead Tetraoxide, lat. Minium)
MW: 685.60; CAS: 1314-41-6.
Used to make Dragon's Eggs, Delays, Thermalite, Friction Sensitive Igniters and hot primes. Whistle catalyst. Red powder. Poisonous.

Lecithin
Propellant processing aid, viscosity reducer. 0.75- 1% added to composite propellants for mixing.

Lignite (Brown Coal)
Carbon-containing fuel intermediate between Coal and Peat, brown or yellowish in color and woody in texture. Lignite contains more moisture than coal and tends to dry and crumble when exposed to air. It burns with a long, smoky flame but little heat.

Lime
Any of a family of chemicals consisting essentially of Calcium Hydroxide made from limestone (Calcite), which is composed mostly of Calcium Carbonate or a mixture of Calcium Carbonate and Magnesium Carbonate.

Linseed Oil
Used to moisture proof-treat Magnalium, Magnesium and Iron.

Litharge PbO (Lead Monoxide, Lead Oxide, Plumbous Oxide)
Litharge is one of the natural mineral forms of lead(II)oxide, PbO. Fine brown powder used in friction sensitive ignition comps, match head compositions and smoke formulations. Also was used in Dragons Eggs- Shimizu has published some compositions that rely on litharge and aluminum alone (no Magnalium).

Lithium Carbonate Li2CO3
White crystalline powder that creates red flame color. It finds limited use in indoor fireworks. Used in some photoflash comps.

Lithium Chloride LiCl (LiClithium chloride anhydrous, hydrochloric acid lithium salt)
CAS: 7447-41-8; EC: 231-212-3.
Sometimes used for red color compositions as a Chlorine Donor. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, bromine trichloride, and bromine trifluoride. Very hygroscopic. Protect from moisture. Stable. Harmful if swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through skin. May cause congenital malformations. May cause reproductive disorders. May cause harm to breastfed babies. Severe skin irritant. Appearance: White odorless solid. Melting Point: 613° C; Boiling Point: 1360° C; Specific Gravity: 2.07.

Lithium Perchlorate LiClO4
Strong oxidizer. Used in photoflash comps.

Lithium Peroxide Li2O2
Oxidizer.

Lupersol
A trade name for a catalyst for polyesters. Used in tracer comps and flares as a binder.

Lycopodium Powder (Lycopodium Clavatum L., Dragons Breath, vegetable sulfur)
CAS: 8023-70-9.
When propelled through an open flame, it produces a jet of orange flame. Used in stage effects. A fuel for pyro comps. Can substitute with Dextrin in some comps such as Flares. Pale yellow, light weight, fluffy powder.

Magnalium Al2Mg3 + Mg2Al3
The most commonly used alloy in firework making. It is usually a 1:1 mixture of Magnesium and Aluminum and is described chemically as a eutectic mixture of the two metals. It is easier to work with than Magnesium and easier to light than Aluminum but gives much of the same results of each.

Magnesium Mg
MW: 24.305; CAS: 7439-95-4; EC: 231-104-6.
Reactive and flammable metal with a very bright flame. High candle power, silver spark and noise effect. The metal is used in pyrotechnics as a fuel in many comps, including color and report comps. Can be treated when necessary with potassium dichromate in deionised water. Will burn under water. Appearance: silver or gray powder, turnings or ribbon. Stable. Reacts violently with halogens, chlorinated solvents, Chloromethane. Air and moisture sensitive. Incompatible with acids, acid chlorides, strong oxidizing agents. Highly flammable Harmful if swallowed or inhaled. Severe irritant.. Melting Point: 650° C; Boiling Point: 1107° C; Vapor Pressure: 1 mm at 621° C; Specific Gravity: 1.73; Flash Point: 634° C (closed cup) Autoignition Temperature: 510° C.

Magnesium/Aluminum
Granular powder, 50:50 mixture (not an alloy), used in fireworks to produce silver sparks with a crackling sound. Fuel for flash comps. Can be used in strobe comps. Reactive. If needed, Boric acid is used to neutralize against alkaline decomposition. If needed, Potassium dichromate is used to protect against reaction with Ammonium Perchlorate.

Magnesium Carbonate MgCO3
White powder used as a glitter delay agent; sometimes as a free-flow agent for Potassium Chlorate and Perchlorate mixes. It is also used in smoke compositions with ~2% - 3% of the weight of the oxidizer. Also has use as an acid neutralizer.

Magnesium Oxalate MgCO2O4• 2H2O
MW: 148.37; CAS: 547-66-0.

Magnesium Oxide MgO (Calcinated Magnesia, Magnesia, Calcined Magnesia)
MW: 40.30; CAS: 1309-48-4.
Used in some photoflash comps. Stabilizer. White powder.

Magnesium Peroxide MgO2
MW: 56.32; CAS: 14452-57-4.

Magnesium Stearate Mg(C18H35O2)2
MW: 591.21; CAS: 557-04-0.

Manganese Mn
Dark gray powder used as a fuel to control or delay burn rates.

Manganese Dioxide MnO2
MW: 86.94; CAS: 1313-13-9.
Used in pyrotechnic mixtures, matches and match box friction surfaces. This oxidizer decomposes at 535 degrees C. Used as a catalyst to aid in decomposition of oxidizers in Whistle Mixes, Torpedo comps, possibly in a rocket fuel. Increases the sensitivity of compositions containing Chlorates and Perchlorates by lowering the amount of energy required to ignite them.

Mannitol C9H18O
MW: 222.33.
Used in delays and as a fuel. A white crystalline powder, Melting Point: 84° C- 86° C.

Meal Powder
Finely divided Black Powder, available in several grades. Meal Powder is the fine dust left over when Black Powder is corned and screened to separate it into different grain sizes. It is used extensively in various pyrotechnic procedures and devices, usually to prime other compositions. See Black Powder.

MEK See Methyl Ethyl Ketone.

Mercuric Thiocyanate Hg(SCN)2
A poisonous, white, odorless powder used in the making of Pharaoh's Serpents.

Mercurous Chloride HgCl (Calomel, Mercuric Monochloride)
Chlorine Donor. Used in some blue comps. This can brighten an otherwise dull colored mixture. Sometimes PVC or Hexachlorobenzene replaces it.

Methanol CH3OH
CAS# 67-56-1.
Polar Solvent used to dissolve Red Gum and Shellac.

Methylene Blue C16H18N3SCl
This dark green powder is used for smokes.

Methylene Chloride CH2Cl2 (Dichloromethane)
Liquid solvent for PCV, bonding plastic shells.

Methyl Ethyl Ketone C4H8O (MEK)
A Polar Solvent for PVC.

Micrograin
A rocket fuel, Zn and S, 2:1 ratio.

Milk Sugar
Used in violet smoke stars. See Lactose.

Mineral Jelly (Vaseline, Petrolatum or Petroleum Jelly)
This acts as a stabilizer in fireworks, like Whistle Mix and in some explosives.

Mineral Oil
Protectant, stabilizer and binder. Used in whistle mix and fog/smokes.

Naphtha
Non-polar solvent suitable for dissolving Petroleum Jelly. See Petroleum Spirits.

Naphthalene C10H8 (Moth Flakes, Moth Balls)
Used in making black smoke comp and fireballs. This is a tar product. The melting point is ~100 degrees C. Dissolves in Benzene.

Nitrocellulose C6H7N3O11 (Gun Cotton, Pyroxylin, cellulose dinitrate, Pyrocellulose)
OB: -38.7%.
Nitrated cellulose. Used to make ping pong balls and Smokeless Propellant. Explosive substance formed by the nitration of cotton, or some other form of cellulose. Used as the base of most fire arm propellants. Specific grades of Nitrocellulose depend on the degree to which the cellulose is nitrated. Celluloid is much safer than Gun Cotton, but is still subject to detonation. Gun Cotton is one form of Nitrocellulose (Cellulose Trinitrate) and is highly sensitive to impact.

Nitrocellulose Lacquer C6H7N3O11
Fast drying flammable liquid used primarily as a binder, and as a water-resistant coating. Often ~25% solution. Solvent is usually Acetone.

Nitrocotton See Guncotton.

Non-Polar Solvent
Benzene, Carbon Tetrachloride, Ether, Gasoline, Hexane, Naphtha, Turpentine and are examples.

Oil of Spike
It is used in some fireworks. This is a volatile oil obtained from the leaves of certain trees. Keep this colorless or pale yellow liquid tightly closed and away from light.

Oil Orange
Used in red smoke stars.

Oil Yellow (Butter Yellow)
Used in green smoke stars.

Oxalic Acid C2H2O4
CAS: 144-62-7. Synonyms: ethanedionic acid; Ethane-1,2-dioic acid. MW: 90.035

Oxidizer
A substance, such as a Nitrate, that readily yields Oxygen or another oxidizing substance to stimulate the combustion of organic matter or other fuel.

Paradichlorobenzene
Chlorine donor.

Paraffin Wax
A white, semi-translucent, odorless, tasteless, water insoluble, waxy solid. Though relatively inert, it burns readily in air. A mixture of Hydrocarbons obtained from Petroleum during refining, Paraffin Wax is used in candles and for coating paper. In pyrotechnics it is used to coat reactive metal powders, it also reduces the sensitivity of compositions and aids the pressing of powders.

Paranitroanaline (N2NC6H4)3COH (Aminophenyl)
A dye used in smoke formulas. It dissolves in alcohol and will melt at 139° C.

Paris Green See Copper Acetoarsenite.

Parlon C4H6Cl2 (chlorinated rubber, ParlonÖ, Chlor-RubÖ, SuperchlonÖ, chlorinated isoprene)
A Chlorine Donor (68%), fuel to enhance colored flames and as a binder. Solvents are Xylene and Acetone.

Paulownia Coal
Fuel similar to Hemp Coal or Lampblack used in some star comps.

PBAN (Polybutadiene/Acrylic Acid)
Composite polymer (CTPB) using DER-331 epoxy to cure. This is used as the Binder to make the Space Shuttle SRB propellant. Very popular and practically foolproof. It takes longer to cure than R-45.

Pergut See Parlon.

Petroleum Spirits Molecular formula: varies.
CAS: 8032-32-4. Synonyms: Amsco H-J, Amsco H-SB, Benzin B70, benzoline, hi-flash naphtha, hydrotreated naphtha, rubber solvent, Super VMP, pet ether, ligroine, petroleum naphtha, benzin, petroleum benzine, petroleum ether Used as a Non-Polar Solvent, particularly to dissolve petroleum jelly for use in comps such as Whistle Mix.

Phenolic Resin
Organic fuel.

Phlegmatizing Agent
This term is applied to agents include water, Petroleum Jelly, and Paraffin. These agents are nearly always flammable themselves, or at least boil off easily.

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° C. If making a formula with Phosphorous, work with it in a wet state. Oxidizers have been known to detonate violently without warning when mixed with Red Phosphorous.

Phosphorus Pentasulfide P4S10 (Phosphoric Sulfide)
These light yellow crystals are used in matches.

Phosphorus Trisulfide P2S3
It is used in making friction ignition comps and matches. This chemical can catch fire from the moisture that is present in air, therefore the container should be kept tightly capped. Forms a grayish-yellow mass.

Photoflash Comp
This is the composition once used by photographers to illuminate the subject of a photograph. The comps were often made from sensitive mixtures that could detonate if well confined.

Phthalocyanine Blue
Blue and green smoke, increases composite rocket fuel burn rate.

Piranha Fluid
This is a mixture of concentrated H2SO4 and H2O2 (35%) at a ratio of 4:1. Will ignite and/or oxidize organic substances.

Pitch
Hard Pitch is the residue from the distillation of coal tar. Sometimes used in the production of smokes and colored Lances, although possible impurities suggest its use with Chlorates should be avoided.

Plaster of Paris CaSO4*0.5H2OH
It is used for end plugs in fireworks and also in some yellow color formulas. This is a white powder, composed mostly of Calcium Sulfate. Mix 2:1 PP to water.

Plumbago See Graphite.

Polar Solvent
Solvents such as Ethanol, Acetone, Acetic Acid, MEK, Xylene, Methylene Chloride, Lacquer Thinner (mostly) and Toluene.

Polybutadiene Acrylic Acidacrylonitrile
Rubber-based binder used in the Space Shuttle booster motors.

Polybutadiene R45-M Resin (HTPB)
Used in some composite rocket motor fuels. Room temp cures with Isonate 143-L or at 140° F with IPDI (Isocyanates).

Polyethylene (C2H4)n
Possibly used as a fuel or binder. White powder.

Polykarbenite-3 (Armex)
Used in some Matrix Comet comps.

Polypropylene P
Makes clear, elastomeric resin. Dissolves in Toluene. Used in some composite rocket fuels.

Polypropylene Resin
Elastomeric sealant/binder. Clear solution, self cures. Used in some composite rocket fuels.

Polyurethane
Used in some composite rocket fuels.

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
Adhesive. Dissolves in boiling water. Similar to Elmer's glue.

Polyvinylbutyral
Binder for some Bengal Fire comps.

Polyvinyl Chloride (C2H3Cl)n (PVC)
CAS: 9002-86-2.
Color enhancer as a Chlorine Donor (57%), fuel, binder in some rocket fuels. Used in some flash comps. A white powder. Polyvinyl Chloride is a thermoplastic that is a Polymer of vinyl chloride. Solvents are Methylene Chloride, MEK, lacquer thinner, Cyclohexane.

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 Benzoate C6H5COOK*(C6H5KO2)
Fuel for whistle compositions, rocket fuel and burst comps. Preferred "catalyst" is copper chromite, then copper oxychloride. Very lightweight white powder.

Potassium Bicarbonate KHCO3
MW: 100.11; CAS: 298-14-6.

Potassium Borohydride
Used in some photoflash comps.

Potassium Chlorate KClO3 (39.2% O2)
CAS No: 3811-04-9. Synonyms: Chloric acid potassium salt, Berthollet salt.
Strong oxidizer used for a range of comps, including colored stars, smokes and flash comps. Sensitized by acids, Copper, Ammonia, Sulfur and their salts. It is easier to ignite than Potassium Perchlorate. Never ram a mixture containing Potassium Chlorate. Do not store mixtures that contain it, as they may explode spontaneously. Contact with combustible material may cause fire. Mixtures with combustible material may be shock sensitive. Incompatible with organic combustible materials, strong reducing agents.

Potassium Chloride KCl
MW: 74.55; CAS: 7447-40-7; EC: 231-211-8. Synonyms: Potassium Monochloride, potassium muriate, monopotassium chloride, Kalitabs, Super K, Enseal, Kaochlor, Kaon-cl, K-Lor, Pfiklor, Potavescent, Rekawan, Slow K. Can be used like Ammonium Chloride for white smoke. Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong acids. Protect from moisture. Hygroscopic. Appearance: white crystals or powder. Melting point: 776° C; Solubility: 34.7 g/ 100g at 20° C; Boiling Point: Sublimes at ca. 1500° C; Specific Gravity: 1.99 g cm-3.

Potassium Dichromate K2CrO7 (Potassium Bichromate)
MW: 294.19; CAS: 7778-50-9.
Used to treat Magnesium so it is less reactive to Nitrates. Can also be used as a catalyst for comps containing Potassium Perchlorate. Used in primes. Also used in smokes and photoflash comps. Lowers ignition temp. Potassium Dichromate enables the oxidizer to part with its oxygen with a lower input of energy than would otherwise be needed. The bright orange crystals are poisonous. Carcinogenic. Strong oxidizer - contact with organic or other flammable material may cause fire. Incompatible with combustible materials, organic materials, strong reducing agents. Hexavalent Chromium compounds are generally more toxic than trivalent Chromium compounds. May be fatal if absorbed through the skin, swallowed or inhaled. Contains Chromium (VI), a known cancer hazard. Allergen. Corrosive. Skin eye and respiratory irritant. May act as a sensitizer. Melting Point: 398° C; Boiling Point: 500° C; Density (g cm-3): 2.676. Typical PEL 0.5 mg/m3.

Potassium Dinitrophenate
Used as a fuel in some whistle comps.

Potassium Ferrocyanide K4Fe(CN)6 3H2O
CAS: 14459-95-1 (trihydrate); 13943-58-3 (anhydrous product). Synonyms: Potassium hexacyanoferrate (II) trihydrate.
It can be used in the manufacture of primes, burst comps and explosives. Stable. Incompatible with oxidizing agents, strong acids (may generate very toxic HCN). Not combustible. Irritant (but highly toxic after hydrolysis). Appearance: Pale yellow solid.

Potassium Hydrogen Phthalate KHC8H4O4 (KHP)
Used as a whistle mix burn rate enhancer (aka "catalyst"- although it isn't a true catalyst).

Potassium Iodide KI
Sometimes used for violet and purple flames.

Potassium Nitrate KNO3
MW: 101.10; OB: 39.6; CAS: 7757-79-1. Synonyms: Collo-Bo, niter, nitre, saltpetre, saltpeter, Vicknite, nitric acid potassium salt. It is a component in Gunpowder and is also used in many other firework pieces, like stars, fountains, etc. Fertilizer marked 13-0-44 is KNO3. Strong oxidizer - contact with combustible material may cause fire. Incompatible with combustible materials, strong reducing agents. Harmful if swallowed. May cause reproductive disorders. Melting Point: 334° C; Boiling Point: ca. 400° C (decomposes).

Potassium Nitrite KNO2
MW: 85.11 CAS: 7758-09-0.

Potassium Oxalate K2C2O4*H2O
MW: 184.24; CAS: 6487-48-5.

Potassium Perchlorate KClO4 (46.9% O2, 46.2% according to Shimizu)
MW: 138.55; CAS: 7778-74-7.
It can be used for rocket fuel, Whistle Mix and for flash and other compounds requiring strong oxidation. Its ignition temperature is higher than potassium chlorate. It can often substitute for Potassium Chlorate to make the formula safer. It will not yield its oxygen as easily, but it gives off more oxygen. Strong oxidizer. White or slightly pink powder.

Potassium Permanganate KMnO4
Synonyms: Chameleon mineral, CI 77755, Condy's crystals, permanganate of potash, Cairox.
Will ignite when in contact with Glycerin. Can be used in this manner to ignite Thermite and Thermate. Strong oxidizer. Stable, but contact with combustible material may cause fire. Substances to be avoided include reducing agents, strong acids, organic material, combustible materials, peroxides, alcohols and chemically active metals. Harmful if swallowed. Irritant. Readily absorbed through skin. Stains deep purple. If gloves are to be used, nitrile will provide some protection, but may degrade upon contact with solid or solution, so should be checked regularly and replaced if damage is apparent. Appearance: Dark purple to bronze crystals. Melting point: ca. 150° C (decomposes); Specific Gravity: 2.70. Solubility: 6.38;

Potassium Picrate C6H2KN3O7
Used for making Whistles Mixes. A salt of Picric Acid, this chemical comes in yellow, reddish or greenish crystals. As with all Picrates, it will explode when struck or heated. Decomposes at 300° C.

Potassium Sulfate K2SO4
MW: 174.26; CAS: 7778-80-5.
Used as a high temperature oxidizer in some white strobe compositions. White powder.

Potassium Sulfate K2SO4
High temperature oxidizer in some white strobe compositions.

Potassium Thiocyanate KCNS
Used to make Pharaoh's Serpents. Colorless or white crystals.

Potato Starch
Binder used in some Bengal Fire comps.

Propyl Guar
Used in some Sparkler comps.

n-Propyl Nitrate C3H7NC2
Is used as a propellant. Prepared from Silver Nitrate and n-Propyl Bromide.

Pulverone
This is ball milled black powder that has been slightly moistened so that it just clings together and pressed through a fine screen (a window screen will work), then dried. It decreases the dust problem and actually makes the powder hotter because of the air spaces between the grains. Used as lift and burst charges.

PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate)
Known as "White Glue" or "Elmer's". A synthetic glue finding more and more use in pyrotechnics as opposed to the old fashioned starch-based and animal glues.

PVC (C2H3Cl)n; [CH2·CHCl_]n (Polyvinyl Chloride)
CAS: 9002-86-2.
Color enhancer as a Chlorine Donor (57%), fuel, binder in some rocket fuels. Used in some flash comps. A white powder. Polyvinyl Chloride is a thermoplastic that is a Polymer of vinyl chloride. Solvents are Methylene Chloride, MEK, lacquer thinner, Cyclohexane.

Pyrocellulose (Pyrocotton)
Nitrocellulose containing 12.6% Nitrogen.

Pyrogen
A substance that is capable of producing an excess of heat as a byproduct of a chemical reaction. A rocket ignition system containing a solid propellant grain as its main ignition material.

Pyroxylin (Collodion)
Nitrocellulose containing 8-12 percent Nitrogen.

Realgar See Arsenic Trisulfate.

Red Gum (Yacca Resin, Red Gum, Acaroid Resin, Accaroid Resin, Accroides, Accroides
Gum, Gum Accroides, Botany Bay Gum, Black Boy Gum)
CAS: 9000-20-8.
A natural plant extract used as a binder and/or a fuel in many pyrotechnic compositions. Accroides resin is an orange powder derived from the Xanthorrhoea trees that grow on Kangaroo Island off South Australia. The Resin has a complex chemical nature and contains various aromatic substances such as Coumaric Acid, Cinnamon Acid, Benzoic Acid and esters of Coumaric and Cinnamic Acids, Benzoresinotannols, Benzoresorcinol, etc.
Solutions with Alcohol, for example Spirit lacquers, dry fast and make a hard film. These solutions are excellent substitutes for Shellac and Copal varnishes.
Color: Orange; Odor: Distinctive, benzoin-like; Melting point: <100°C; Solvent: Alcohol.

Red Lead See Lead Oxide.

Rhodamine B Concentrate
Used in some red smoke comps.

Rice Hulls
Often used coated with a burst comp (Black Powder, Whistle Mix, H3, etc.), to break an aerial shells' case. Creates a powerful burst due to the increased surface area of explosive to weight ratio.

Rice Starch
Used in some flash comps and as a binder.

Rosin (Pine rosin, Colophony, Turpentine rosin)
Sometimes used as a fuel in blue colors and smokes. Solvents are Alcohol and Acetone. Used in Chlorate and Perchlorate-based report comps, some star comps. Tan to brown powder.

Phosphorus, Red (Red PP
MW: 30.97; CAS: 7723-14-0.
Used in friction sensitive comps, striker surface of book matches. Regulated, thanks to the meth makers.

Salicylic Acid C7H603 (Benzoic Acid)
Used in making Salicylates. White powder.

Saltpeter KNO3 See Potassium Nitrate.

Saran Resin [CH2·CHCl2_]n (Polyvinylidine Chloride)
Used as a Chlorine Donor (73%). Solvent is Xylene or Acetone. Off-white granular powder.

Scratch Mix
A coarsely sieved mixture of Potassium Nitrate, Charcoal and Sulfur primarily used as a prime for stars. Similar to Green Mix.

Sculpy Clay
A modeling clay made with PVC. It is a Chlorine Donor and binder for some star comps that contain Ammonium Perchlorate. Oven cures. Can be mixed before curing, or cured, powdered, then mixed into the comp.

Shellac C16H26O4
Orange-yellow powdered organic resin. Considered a superior fuel for use in colored flame compositions. Solvents are Alcohol and Acetone. Clean burning fuel used in many star and photoflash comps.

Silica Silica Quartz SiO
CAS: 14808-60-7.
Used in some photoflash comps. A compound of Silicon such as quartz sand.

Silica Gel SiO2 xH2O
CAS: 112926-00-8; EC: 231-545-4.
Silica Gel is used to absorb water from a gaseous environment; the water absorbing capacity is usually around 25% by weight. When used to absorb water, an indicator may be added which is blue in the dry state and pink when the gel is saturated with water. Such a gel is usually described as "self-indicating". The gel can be regenerated by heating in an oven to a temperature of around 150° C. Stable. Incompatible with strong acids.

Silicon Si
MW: 28.086; CAS: 7440-21-3.
Dark gray powder used to increase the effectiveness of ignition or priming compositions by raising the flame temperature and producing molten glass-like droplets, in the form of a hot slag. Used in some photoflash comps

Silicon Dioxide SiO2
Also known as Cab-O-Sil and Aero-Sil. Used as a free-flowing aid, also used as an aid in preventing electrostatic charges in powdered compositions and as a thickening product. Its has also be used as a coating on certain metal powders including iron and aluminum.

Single-Base Propellant
A propellant whose principal active ingredient is Nitrocellulose. Also see Smokeless Powder. Can be used to make NC lacquer by dissolving in acetone.

Smokeless Powder
A pyrotechnic mixture containing Nitrocellulose alone (Single-Based) or Nitrocellulose and Nitroglycerine (Double-Based), so called because unlike Black Powder, it does not produce much smoke on burning. In this way it found favor as a propellant in small arms devices and replaced Black Powder, for the most part. Its use in fireworks is limited. Can be used to make nitrocellulose lacquer when dissolved in acetone.

Sodium Aluminum Flouride Na3AlF6 (Cryolite)
It is used in fireworks as a yellow color agent.

Sodium Benzoate C7H5NaO2
MW: 144.11; CAS: 532-32-1. Synonyms: Benzoic acid sodium salt, benzoate of soda, sodium benzoic acid, benzoate sodium, antimol, sobenate.
Fuel for Whistle Mix. More hydroscopic than Potassium Benzoate. Preferred "catalyst" is copper oxychloride. Is water soluble. Not hazardous. Appearance: White crystalline powder; Melting Point: 300° C;
Density (g cm-3): 1.44.

Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO3
MW: 84.01; CAS: 144-55-8. Synonyms: Bicarbonate of soda, baking soda, sodium hydrogen carbonate, bicarb, sodium acid carbonate, Col-evac, jusonin, NEUT, soda mint.
Used as a glitter effect enhancer, a delay agent, and sometimes as a yellow color agent. When a formula calls for this, use Baking Soda. Density (g cm-3): 2.16.
Appearance: White powder or crystals. Melting point: 50o C.

Sodium Borate See Borax.

Sodium Carbonate Na2CO3
CAS: 497-19-8. Synonyms: Sodium carbonate, soda ash, disodium carbonate, carbonic acid disodium salt.
This white powder is used in fireworks, but not to any great extent. Use anhydrous. Stable. Incompatible with powdered alkaline earth metals, Aluminum, organic nitro compounds, fluorine, alkali metals, nonmetallic oxides, concentrated Sulfuric Acid, oxides of phosphorus. Appearance: White odorless powder. Melting Point: 851o C;
Density (g cm-3): 2.53. Eye and respiratory irritant.

Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
Binder and thickening agent. Use 1% with other water soluble binder or 2-3% by itself.

Sodium Chlorate NaClO3
CAS: 7775-09-9; EC: 231-887-4.
Oxidizer used in some rocket propellants. Similar to Potassium Chlorate, although not as powerful and also with the disadvantage of absorbing water. Mixtures of this material with organic fibrous or absorbent material and with a variety of other materials are potentially explosive. Stable.

Sodium Chloride NaCl (Table Salt)
CAS: 7647-14-5; EC: 231-598-3. Synonyms: Salt, sea salt, common salt, dendritis, rock salt, saline, halite.
Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Appearance: colorless crystals or white powder; Melting Point: 804° C; Boiling Point: 1413° C; Vapor Pressure: 1 mm Hg at 865°C; Specific Gravity: 2.16 g cm3; Solubility in Water: 35.7g/100g at 0° C.

Sodium 2-Ethylhexyl Sulfate
Used in some Photoflash Comps.

Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate See Sodium Bicarbonate
Used in some yellow comps.

Sodium Lignosulfonate
Used in some Photoflash Comps.

Sodium Nitrate NaNO3
MW: 85.01; OB: 47; CAS: 7631-99-4. Synonyms: Nitratine, soda niter, soda nitre, Chile saltpetre, cubic nitre, sodium saltpeter, nitric acid sodium salt.
Oxidizer used to make yellow flames. With Magnesium it aids in yellow flare illumination. Used in composite rocket fuels. Very similar to Saltpeter (Potassium Nitrate). It is used where large amounts of a Nitrate Oxidizer are needed in fireworks and explosives. Strong oxidizer - may ignite flammable material. Can be found Over the Counter as ‘Solid OX’ Pellets used for outdoors cooking. It will absorb water as do other Sodium salts. Stable. Incompatible with cyanides, combustible material, strong reducing agents and Aluminum. Harmful if swallowed. Skin, eye and respiratory irritant. Appearance: Colorless crystals or white powder; Melting Point: 306° C; Vapor Density: 2.9 (air = 1); Density (g cm-3): 2.26; Water solubility: Soluble.

Sodium Nitrite NaNO2
MW: 69.01; CAS: 7632-00-0.

Sodium Oxalate NaC2O4
MW: 134.01; CAS: 62-76-0.
Yellow color agent, delay comps, flash powder, glitter effects with Aluminum and Antimony. Used in Tracer Comps. Melting Point: 250° C - 270° C (482° F - 518° F); Solubility:
3.7g/100g water @ 20° C (68° F). pH: Aqueous solution is neutral.

Sodium Perchlorate NaClO4
This chemical is used in some Photoflash Comps, fireworks and explosives. It is very similar to Potassium Perchlorate with the exception that it will absorb water.

Sodium Salicylate NaC7H5O3
MW: 168.10; CAS: 54-21-7.
Fuel for Whistle Comps. Somewhat more powerful than Sodium Benzoate. Red Iron Oxide is a preferred "catalyst". Somewhat hygroscopic.

Sodium Silicate Na2SiO3 (Water Glass)
MW: 122.06 g/mol; CAS: 6834-92-0.
This chemical is used as a fire proof glue. It is available in syrupy solution and can be thinned with water. When dry it resembles glass, hence the name. It can be thickened with Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Oxide, powdered Silica, or fiberglass (chopped) if extra strength is desired. Used in pyro adhesives for rolling cup sets in sawdust and for making paper tubes fire resistant.
Is found Over the Counter as ‘Red Devil’ TSP/90 Heavy Duty Cleaner, as a fine powder.

Sodium Sulfate Na2SO4
White powder used as a high temperature Oxidizer in some yellow strobe comps.
Solid Propellant
Specifically, a rocket propellant in solid form, usually containing both fuel and oxidizer combined or mixed and formed into a monolithic (not powdered or granulated) grain.

Soluble Glutinous Rice Starch (SGRS, Mizinko)
Sometimes used as a glue or to bind star compositions.

Solvent
1.) Polar Solvents
Solvents such as Ethanol, Acetone, Acetic Acid, MEK, Xylene, Methylene Chloride, Lacquer Thinner (mostly) and Toluene.
2.) Non-Polar Solvents
Benzene, Carbon Tetrachloride, Ether, Gasoline, Hexane, Naphtha, Turpentine and are examples. Will dissolve Petroleum Jelly.

Sorbitol C6H14O6
Fuel, binder used in rocket motor grain.

Starch (C6H10O5)n
A white hydroscopic powder, Starch dissolves in hot water to form a thick adhesive solution. Sometimes used in the manufacture of Quick Match and Stars. Can be used to reduce the burning rate of various compositions.

Starpol C6H10O5
Light yellow powder. A starch-based, water soluble binder with more adhesion than dextrin; use less of it than dextrin. It reduces water absorption in some formulas, such as those containing Strontium Nitrate.

Stearic Acid (See Stearin) CH3(CH2)16COOH
MW: 284.47; CAS: 57-11-4.
It can sometimes take the place of Sulfur and Charcoal. Used as a Phlegmatizing agent and as a low reactivity fuel. Used for blue flames. A high O2 demand fuel.

Stearin C21H42O4 (Stearine)
The tallow derived from beef is called stearin. A term for the glyceryl ester of Stearic Acid.
Used as an aid in producing metal powders and sometimes as a fuel. The name is sometimes also applied to a mixture of Stearic Acid and Palmitic Acid. Used in Chlorate-based flash comps.

Lancaster says (p.121, 3rd ed.):
"The material is probably a mixture of stearic and palmitic acids obtained by hydrolysis from their glyceryl esters. The powder used for firework making usually passes 80 mesh. The main use for this material is for adding it to some compositions which are somewhat sensitive to friction. It can also be used in those fireworks where it is desirable to have a long flame."

Quote from M. Swisher:
"I have never seen an analysis of the commercial product, but whatever it may be, in my experience it is consistent from bag to bag over many bags and many years.

"To Lancaster's comments I will add that it was the customary fuel in the US for use with Paris green and chlorate of potash to make blue. In Europe they tend to use colophony rosin for this purpose.

"Stearine is much easier to work with for pumped stars, since the rosin makes the pumps seize up quickly as they are used, but the stearine lubricates them and they work smoothly for a much longer time before needing to be washed. A little stearine added to any composition intended for pumping has this benefit.

"Stearine has very high oxygen demand so not very much is needed as a fuel." Mike Swisher @ rec.pyro

From Merk Index 9th Ed.:
"9422. Stearin; Tristearin; glyceryl tristearate. C57H110O6; mol wt 891.45. C- 76.79%;
H- 12.44%; O- 10.77%. Present in many animal and vegetable fats, especially hard ones like cacao butter and tallow.
Prep'd. from stearic acid and glycerol in the presence of Al2O3: Ingram, Brit. pat. 633,566 (1951 to I.C.I); by catalytic hydrogenation of many oils: Bailey's Industrial Oil and Fat Products (Wiley, New York, 3rd ed., 1964) pp 881-882.
White powder. MP about 55° C; on further heating solidifies and melts again at 72° C. Insol. in water; sol. in benzene, chloroform, hot alchohol; almost insol. in cold alcohol, ether, petr. ether."

Steel Fe+C
Alloy used to make branching sparks in Stars and Fountains, etc.

Strontium Carbonate SrCO3
MW: 148.00; CAS: 1633-05-2.
Most common non-oxidizing red color agent, neutralizer. It comes as a white powder. Stable. Incompatible with strong acids. Boiling Point: 1700° C.

Strontium Chloride SrCl2
MW: 254.54; CAS: 10476-85-4.
Used in campfires and red burning pine cones. Hygroscopic.

Strontium Chromate SrCr2O3 (43% Sr)
Rocket propellant catalyst, oxidizer.

Strontium Nitrate Sr(NO3)2
MW: 211.65; CAS: 10042-76-9.
Most common chemical used to produce red. Often used with metal fuels. Used in some rocket fuels. An oxidizer that absorbs water. 45.4% O2, (37.7 according to Chemistry of Pyrotechnics by John A. Conkling). Sr content is 43%

Strontium Oxalate Anhydrous SrC2O4
MW: 175.65; CAS: 814-95-9.
Used for red flares and stars, tracer comps.

Strontium Perchlorate SrClO4
Oxidizer.

Strontium Peroxide SrO2 (73% Sr)
MW: 119.63; CAS: 1314-18-7.
Has some use as a red and orange color agent. White or yellowish powder.

Strontium Sulfate SrSO4 (48% Sr)
CAS: 14291-02-2.
High temperature oxidizer sometimes used in red color strobe compositions..

Strontium Tartrate
Used in Tracer Comps.

Sucrose C12H22O11 (Table Sugar)
MW: 342.30; CAS: 57-50-1; EC: 200-334-9. Synonyms: Sugar, cane sugar, saccharose, beta-d-fructofuranoside, beet sugar, Confectioner's Sugar, granulated sugar, NCI-C56597, icing sugar, rock candy, saccharum.
Used in some Photoflash Comps, a fuel for blue colors, rocket propellant fuel and for colored smoke with organic dyes. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Hydrolyzed by dilute acids and by Invertase. Melting Point: 160°-180° C (decomposes); Density (g cm-3): 1.59.

Sulfur S
MW: 32.064; OB –100%; CAS: 7704-34-9. Synonyms: Sulfur, brimstone, flowers of sulfur, precipitated sulfur, sublimed sulfur, bensulfoid, flowers of sulfur, precipitated sulfur.
Used in many types of fireworks and explosives. Fuel and ignition temperature modifier. Used in Black Powder to aid in ignition and increase the burn rate. Good pyro grades are low in acid. Yellow powder or fused solid, or amber to yellow crystals Dust may form a flammable or explosive mixture with air. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, most common metals, hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine. Eye, skin and respiratory irritant. Burns at 250° C, giving off choking fumes. Stable. Melting Point: ca. 116° C (depending upon form); Boiling Point: 445° C; Vapor Density: 8.8 (air = 1); Density (g cm-3): 2.01; Flash Point: 188° C; Water Solubility: Negligible.

Teflon (-CF2CF2-)n
CAS: 9002-84-0.
It can be used in flash comps. Used in rocket fuel and sometimes as an oxidizer, commonly in military compositions such as flares. Extremely reactive when mixed with fine metal powders.

Terephthalic Acid C6H4(COOH).
MW: 166.13; CAS: 100-21-0, 211863-90-0.
This is used for fuel and to make Terephthalates for colored comps and Whistle Mix.

Thermate
This is a mixture of Thermite and pyrotechnic additives, which have been found to be superior to standard Thermite for incendiary purposes.
Its composition by weight is generally:
Thermite................68.7%
Barium Nitrate........29.0%
Sulfur.....................2.0%
Binder.....................0.3%

Thermite
A high temperature producing mixture. Typical mix contains a mixture of Iron Oxide and Aluminum (3:1) and has been used for in situ welding of railway tracks.

Titanium Ti
MW: 47.98; CAS: 7440-32-6.
Metal used to produce bright white or silver sparks. Comes in sponge or flakes, may increase the friction sensitivity of a firework composition.

Titanium Dioxide TiO2
Used to decrease speed of Whistle Mix, or to modify whistle tone. Used in smoke comps.

Titanium Alloy Ti/Vn/Al
Aerospace alloy that consists of: 90% Titanium, 6% Vanadium, 4% Aluminum. Slightly brighter white sparks than the pure Ti. Works well in Salutes, Fountains, Gerbs, and Comets.

Titanium, Sponge Ti
Bright white sparks. An excellent form of the metal which works well in Salutes, Fountains, Gerbs, Comets and Stars.

Titanium Hydride TiH2
Used for Igniters, Primers.

Toluene C7H8 (Toluol)
CAS: 108-88-3; EC: 203-625-9.
Polar Solvent. If gloves are required, polyvinyl alcohol is recommended. Colorless liquid with a benzene-like odor (odor threshold 0.17 ppm). Stable. Substances to be avoided: oxidizing agents, oxygen, moisture. Highly flammable. Hygroscopic. Toxic by inhalation, ingestion or by absorption through skin. Serious irritant. Experimental teratogen. Melting Point: -93° C; Boiling Point: 110.6° C.

Triacetin C9H14O6 (Glyceryl Triacetate)
MW: 218.21 g/mol; CAS: 102-76-1.
Plasticizer/Elastomer for very rubbery cures. Used in composite rocket fuels.

Trichlorophenol C6H3Cl3O
CAS: 88-06-2.
Used in some Photoflash Comps.

Triple-Base Propellant
Propellant whose principal active ingredients are Nitrocellulose, Nitroglycerin and Nitroguanidine. Not suitable for using as NC lacquer.

Tung Oil
This is used to protect Iron Magnesium or Magnalium.

Tungsten Powder W
MW: 183.92; CAS: 7440-33-7.

Turpentine C10H16 (approximate)
MW: 136 g/mol; CAS: 8006-64-2. Synonyms: Oil of Turpentine, Terpene, Dipanol, Gum Spirits, Wood Turpentine, and turps.
Distilled resin of the pine tree used as a Non-Polar Solvent for Asphaltum. Widely used as a thinner, antiseptic, drug, pesticide, insecticide. Stable. Flammable. Incompatible with Chlorine, strong oxidizers. Colorless liquid with paint-like odor. Boiling Point:150°-180° C.

Turpentine Rosin See Rosin
Colophony.

Ultramarine Na3S2.3NaAlSiO4 (Sodium Disilicate)
Fine blue powder used to produce yellow flames. Unlike other Sodium-based yellow flame producers, Ultramarine stores well. Shimizu says it can be used with Ammonium Perchlorate.

Vermiculite
Exfoliated mica, used in some Matrix Comet comps.

Versamid 140 (Polyamide Resin)
Epoxy curative, mix 50/50 with epoxy for room temp cures. Used in some composite rocket comps.

Vinsol Resin
A pine-derived synthetic resin used as a binder and as a one to one replacement for Red Gum. Solvents are Alcohol, Ketones and Hydrocarbons. Dark brown powder.

Voranol 220-530 Polyol
Chain linking agent used for some composite rocket motor fuels.

Waterglass See Sodium Silicate.

Wheat Paste
Cheap adhesive made with flour and water. Commercially found as wallpaper paste.

Whistle Mix
A general term to refer to any pyrotechnic composition that emits a whistling sound when pressed into a tube and ignited. Usually has Potassium or Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Picrate, Gallic Acid or Sodium Salicylate as fuel, Potassium Chlorate or Perchlorate or other Potassium salt as the Oxidizer.

White Phosphorus
Yellow waxy solid that ignites spontaneously when exposed to air. It is used as a filling for various projectiles as a smoke-producing agent and has an incendiary effect. White phosphorous may be mixed with a Xylene-based solution of synthetic rubber to form plasticized white phosphorous.

Wood Flour C6H10O5
Used in fireworks for a star prime enhancement and in explosives. Another name for Sawdust or Wood Meal. Extremely fine wood powder, much finer than sawdust. Used as a filler and thickener for glue, occasionally as a fuel in Lance and Flash Compositions.

Xylene C8H10
CAS: 1330-20-7.
Polar Solvent for PVC and binder for plastic shells.

Zinc Dust Zn
MW: 65.3; CAS: 7440-66-6. Synonyms: Zinc powder, blue powder, granular zinc, LS 2, LS 6, Merrillite.
Used for smoke comps, rocket fuel (Micro Grain), Spreader Stars, Granite Stars. Gives a greenish flame. Zinc powder is very flammable. Stable. Incompatible with amines, cadmium, sulfur, chlorinated solvents, strong acids, strong bases. Air and moisture sensitive. Melting Point: 420° C; Boiling Point: 908° C; Density (g cm-3): 7.14.

Zinc Borate 2ZnO.3B2O3.3.5H2O FORMULA
MW: 434.62; CAS: 1332-07-6, 138265-88-0, 149749-62-2.
A white amorphous powder used in making smoke comps.

Zinc Carbonate ZnCO3
A white Zinc compound used in some Chlorate-based report comps and smoke formulas.

Zinc Chromate ZnCrO4 (Chromium Zinc Oxide, Zinc Tetraoxychromate)
Bright yellow powder used as a rocket fuel catalyst.

Zinc Oxide ZnO
MW: 81.37; CAS: 1314-12-2.
Used to produce white smoke and as a stabilizer. 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.

Zinc Stearate Zn(C18H35O2)2
MW: 632.3; CAS: 557-05-1.
Used to aid pressing of smoke compositions, slightly increases the burning rate. White powder, with a greasy feel.

Zircronium Z
Used in some flash comps. Incredibly bright white sparks. Excellent for igniters.

Zirconium Carbide ZrC
MW: 102.23; CAS: 12070-14-3.
Burn rate catalyst, produces sparks.

Zirconium Hydride ZrH2
MW: 93.23; CAS: 7704-99-6.
Used in smokeless flash powder.

Zirconium Silicate ZrSiO4
CAS: 14940-68-2.
Used in Matrix Comet comps.

Zirconium Wool
Super bright-burning material. Used in photo flash bulbs, non-lethal flash grenades.

I became curious as to what was meant by the different sizes of rockets when described by weight.

Everybody knows that a 4 ounce rocket is 1/2" ID, a one pounder is 3/4" ID, etc. While the idea has been broached that this is the weight of a lead or iron ball of the same diameter, this does not check out. Maybe a cylinder of the same diameter, of some set length?

A call to both Skylighter and Firefox got no definitive answer. Wolter's on holiday, and Google got me no conclusive answer, either.

So, does anybody know what these designations represent?