D. Chapman, R. K. Wharton, J. E. Fletcher and A. E. Webb
ABSTRACT: Fireworks formulations were modified to produce compositions containing sulfur/chlorate mixtures, and their thermal stability and mechanical sensitiveness were studied. The results indicate that the presence of sulfur/chlorate mixtures in fireworks compositions reduces the ignition temperatures to values well below those obtained with compositions that do not contain the sulfur/chlorate mixture and generally increases the sensitiveness (this was particularly marked in iron-containing mixtures). The sulfur/chlorate initiation reaction was examined and the mixture was shown to produce sulfur dioxide on heating. Once formed, the sulfur dioxide quickly causes potassium chlorate to decompose and pyrotechnic mixtures containing potassium chlorate to ignite.
Keywords: chlorate, sulfur, sensitiveness, thermal stability, ignition temperature
Ref: JPyro, Issue 12, 2000, pp43-51
(J12_43)
© Journal of Pyrotechnics and CarnDu Ltd
