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K. L. and B. J. Kosanke When investigating the cause of an accident, it was necessary to learn something about the lower explosive limit with regard to phosphorus content in Armstrong’s Mixture. A short literature search did not produce the needed information; thus a brief laboratory study was undertaken. Because the results of the study …
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Someone recently raised the question as to whether there could be potential problems with high density polyethylene (HDPE) mortars from contact with detergents and from exposure to sunlight. This article was drafted in response to a request to address those concerns and also to present an update on the status of acceptance of HDPE mortars …
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A shell ignition failure means there will be a live dud in the fallout area after a display. If that dud is not retrieved, is found by a member of the public, and that person is subsequently injured as the result of mishandling the dud shell, an insurance claim against the shooter and manufacturer will …
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CMC, as it is commonly called, is more properly referred to as Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose (carboxy-methyl-cellulose). In the food industry it is also frequently referred to as cellulose gum. Ref: Selected Pyrotechnic Publication of K.L. and B.J Kosanke, Part 1, (1981-1989), pp 106-106 (K1_106)

(Derived from data provided by Dr. T. Shimizu, private communication) The National Fire Protection Association, Technical Committee on Pyrotechnics is in the process of revising NFPA-1123, Code for the Outdoor Display of Fireworks (formerly called Public Display of Fireworks). In preparation for considering the appropriate separation distances between spectators and mortar placements and between spectators …
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In an earlier article on High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) mortars, results from an initial series of tests were published (Pyrotechnics Guild Int’l. Bulletin, No. 54, p 5). Those results will not be repeated here. This article continues by presenting the results from an additional test, a summary of the author’s field experience since the first …
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(* RAP stands for Rapid Assembly Plastic) We have had a high degree of success using RAP Shells. Assembly times are a small fraction of what is required for Italian style construction and nicely symmetric breaks can be achieved when the proper techniques are employed. This article is a summary of successful methods used by …
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Introduction: One hears a number of reasons why some manufacturers are reluctant to seriously consider the use of plastic shells. Among these are a feeling that it would somehow represent a betrayal of tradition and aesthetic values; the problem of long lasting debris; that it requires the learning and application of significantly different techniques, which …
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The sizzling colored comets described in this article have brilliantly colored heads, have short white tails and produce a sound much like frying bacon. They are very simple modifications of standard potassium perchlorate color compositions, are inexpensive and are relatively easy to make. These sizzling colored comets are suitable for use as comet stars in …
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One problem commonly faced by smaller display operators is the sponsor of an inexpensive show ($1000 to $5000) who wants a longer show than he has money for. The obvious solution, slowing down the firing, is usually a poor choice. Some slowing may be practical, but often the sponsor of these small shows wants about …
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