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Chemical Information

Aluminum Al

An element used for brilliancy in the fine powder form. It can be
purchased as a fine silvery or gray powder. All grades from technical to
superpure (99.9%) can be used. The danger is from inhaling the dust and
explosive room condition if too much dust goes into the air.

MP 660°C, Specific Gravity 2.70, Solubility negligible

Aluminum Chloride AlCl3

This chemical must not come in contact with the skin as severe burns can
result. The yellowish-white crystals or powder have a strong attraction for
water. Purchase only in the anhydrous grade.

Amber

This is a fossil resin of vegetable origin and is yellowish- brown in
color. It is used in fireworks to a small extent.

Ammonium Bichromate and Dichromate
(NH4)2Cr2O7

A mild poison used in the manufacture of tabletop volcanoes (sometimes
called Vesuvius Fire). It is available as orange crystals in a technical
grade. Also used in smoke formulas.

Ammonium Chloride NH4NO3

The common name is Sal Ammoniac. Comes as colorless crystals or a white
powder. The technical grade is used to manufacture safety explosives and
smokes.

Ammonium Oxalate NH4C2O4

This compound takes the form of colorless, poisonous, crystals. The
technical grade is suitable for the manufacture of safety explosives.

Ammonium Perchlorate (NH4ClO4)

An extremely good oxidizer, faster than all the above mentioned,
decomposition products are all gases and for this reason it is used in
rockets, including the booster rockets of space shuttles. Itcan be made to
explode by either heat or shock. Besides exploding in itself, it is used to
manufacture other explosives.

Ammonium Permanganate NH4MnO4

A moderate explosive which can be detonated by either heat or shock.

Ammonium Picrate
(NH4C6H2N3O7)

These bright orange crystals are used in armor piercing shells and
fireworks. If heated to 300 degrees it will explode or it can be set off by
shock. If you do any work with this chemical, it is advisable to keep it wet.

Aniline Dyes

These are used in smoke powder formulas. They are organic coal tar
derivatives. Available in many different colors.

Aniline Green C23H25CIN2

Also known as Malachite Green. One of the many Aniline dyes. The green
crystals are used in smoke formulas.

Anthracene

A coal tar derivative used as a source of dyestuff and for colored smokes.
Available as colorless crystals which melt at 217 degrees.

Antimony Sb

Another name for this metal element is Antimony Regulus. Purchase the
black powder in 99% purity. Not the yellow variety. It is used in
pyrotechnics.

Antimony Fulminate

One of a group of unstable, explosive compounds related to Mercury
Fulminate.

Antimony Potassium Tartrate

Also known under the name of Tartar Emetic. These poisonous, transparent,
odorless crystals (or white powder) are used to make Antimony Fulminate. The
moisture that is present can be driven off by heating to 100 degrees. Do not
exceed this temperature or the chemical will decompose.

Antimony Sulfide (Sb2S3)

This has usefulness in sharpening the report of firecrackers, salutes,
etc. or to add color to a fire. The technical black powder is suitable. Avoid
contact with the skin; dermatitis or worse will be the result.

Aqua Regia

A strong acid containing 1 part concentrated Nitric Acid and 3 parts
concentrated Hydrochloric Acid. Store in a well closed glass bottle in a dark
place. This acid will attack all metals, including gold and platinum. It is
used in making some explosives.

Arsenic Sulfide, Red

The common name is Realgar and it is also known as Red Arsenic. Purchase
the technical grade, which is available as a poisonous orange-red powder. It
is used in fireworks to impart color to the flame.

Arsenic Sulfide,Yellow (As2S3)

This Chemical is just as poisonous as its red brother and is also used in
fireworks, somewhat. The common name is Kings Gold.

Arsenious Oxide (As2O)3

A white, highly poisonous powder used in fireworks. It is also known as
Arsenious Trioxide, Arsenic Oxide and Arsenous Acid. Its uses are similar to
Paris Green.

Asphaltum

A black bituminous substance, best described as powdered tar.

Auramine Hydrochloride

Also known as Auramine. It is used in smoke formulas. Available as yellow
flakes or powder, which readily dissolves in alcohol.

Auramine

A certified Biological stain used in smoke cartridges.

Barium Carbonate BaCO3

This is a poisonous salt of Barium, which decomposes at a fairly high
temperature, 1300 degrees. It is available as a fine white powder in the
technical grade. It is used in fireworks as a color imparter.

Barium Chlorate Ba(ClO3)2H2O

Available as a white powder. It is poisonous, as are all Barium salts. It
is used in fireworks, both as an oxidizer and color imparter. It is as
powerful as Potassium Chlorate and should be handled with the same care.
Melting point is 414 degrees.

Barium Nitrate Ba(NO3)2

The uses and precautions are the same as above with a comparison equal to
Potassium Nitrate instead of the Chlorate. It melts at 500 degrees.

Bismuth Fulminate

One of a group of unstable, explosive compounds derived from Fulminic
Acid.

Brass

This is an alloy of Copper and Zinc. Some also contain a small percentage
of Tin. The commercial grade is suitable in powdered form. It is used in some
fireworks formulas.

Calcium Carbide CaCO3

These grayish, irregular lumps are normally packed in

waterproof
and airtight metal containers. It is used in toy cannons. Mixed with water it
forms Acetylene Gas (EXPLOSIVE).

Calcium Carbonate CaCO3

This occurs as the mineral Calcite. It is used for Phosphorous Torpedoes,
but does not have any dangerous properties in itself. Also as an acid absorber
in fireworks.

Calcium Fluoride CaF2

This finds its use in a smokeless firework mixture and is not used
elsewhere. It is a white powder, also known as Fluorspar.

Calcium Phosphide Ca3P2

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

Camphor OC10H16

A ketone found in the wood of the Camphor tree, native to Taiwan and a few
of our states. For the best results, buy the granulated, technical grade. Used
in explosives and fireworks.

Castor Oil

The common drug store variety is used in some powders to reduce the
sensitiveness and to waterproof the mixture.

Charcoal C

A by product of the combustion of organic substances such as wood. The
wood burning by itself does not produce enough heat to convert all of the C
into CO2 and so leaves behind charcoal. Charcoal is mostly carbon
(in the form of the allotrope graphite) but contains various impurities making
it more reactive. For this reason it is used instead of carbon in most
pyrotechnic compositions. The softwood variety is best and it should be black,
not brown. On this page, when refering to charcoal, the formula C is used for
simplicity.

MP 3500°C, Specific Gravity 3.51, Insoluble

Chrysoidine

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

Clay

This can be purchased in the powdered form. It is used dry for chokes,
nozzles and sealing firework cases. You can mix it with water to form paste if
so desired.

Confectioners Sugar

Commonly called powdered sugar, it can be purchased at your local food
store. The fineness is graded by the symbol XXXX. It is used in explosives.

Copper Cu

As any pure metal used in fireworks, this must also be in a powdered
state. It is reddish in color, in fact, it is the only element to be found in
nature having that color.

Copper Acetoarsenite
(Cu)3As2O3Cu(C2H3O2)2

The popular name for this is Paris Green. It is also called Kings Green or
Vienna Green. It is readily available as an insecticide or as a technical
grade, poisonous, emerald green powder. It is used in fireworks to add color.

Copper Arsenate CuHAsO3

A fine, light green, poisonous powder. It is used in the technical grade
for fireworks.

Copper Carbonate CuCO3.Cu(OH)2

Also known as Cupric Carbonate or Artificial Malachite. It is a green
powder used in fireworks.

Copper Chlorate Cu(ClO3)2.6H2O

Or, technically, Cupric Chlorate. A poison used in fireworks as an
oxidizer and to add color.

Copper Chloride CuCl2

An oxidizer and color imparter used in fireworks. Purchase the
brownish-yellow technical grade. This is a poisonous compound.

Copper Nitrate Cu(NO3)2.3H2O

Or Cupric Nitrate. These blue crystals absorb water, as you can see from
the formula. It is used in fireworks.

Copper Oxide CuO

When ordering be sure to specify the black powder. It is also available in
red. The technical grade will serve the purpose for fireworks.

Copper Oxychloride

A green powder used to impart oxygen and color especially to blue star
formulas. It is a poison and the dust should not be inhaled.

Copper Sulfate CuSO4.5H2O

Known as Blue Vitriol, this poisonous compound is available as blue
crystals or blue powder. It can be purchased in some drugstores. Used in
fireworks for blue stars.

Copper Sulfide CuS

As are the other copper salts, this is also used in fireworks to add
color. The technical grade is suitable and is black in color. You can make
your own by passing Hydrogen Sulfide into a Copper salt.

Decaborane B10H14

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

Dextrin

This can be purchased as a white or yellow powder. It is a good cheap glue
for binding cases and stars in fireworks.

Diazoacetic Ester
C4H6N2O2

A very severe explosive in the form of a yellow oil. It will explode on
contact with Sulfuric acid or when heated. Very volatile and explosive.

Diazoaminobenzene
C6H5N:N.NH.C6H5

These golden yellow crystals will explode when heated to 150 degrees.

P-Diazobenzeneslfonic Acid
C6H4NSO3N

Another severe explosive. It can be exploded by rubbing the white paste or
powder, or by heating.

Diazodimitrophenol
HOC6H3(NO2)2N(:N)

An organic explosive in the same group as the above compound. Also very
sensitive to shock or heat.

Diazomethane CH2N2

Also known as Azimethylene. This yellow gas is also in the above group and
can be exploded by heat or shock.

Dinitrotoulene

Known as DNT for short. These yellow crystals are used in the manufacture
of other explosives.

Ethyl Alcohol

This alcohol is the only one that is useful for fireworks. It should be
about 95% pure. It is poisonous because of the impurities. It is clear, like
water, and also a very flammable liquid.

Fluorine Perchlorate FClO4

A very sensitive colorless gas which will explode on the slightest contact
with a rough surface. It can also be detonated by heating to 168 degrees.
Avoid all contact with this gas, as even a trace of it will attack the lungs.

Gallic Acid C7H6O5.H2O

A white or pale fawn colored powder used in fireworks to make whistles.
When mixed with some chlorates, Permanganates or Silver salts, it may explode.

Glycerol C3H8O3

Commonly known as Glycerin. It is obtained from oils and fats as a
by-product when making soaps. It is a sweet warm tasting syrupy liquid which
is used in several explosives. Contact with Chromium Trionide or potassium
Permanganate may cause an explosion.

Gold Explosive

A dark brown powder which explodes when heated or rubbed. Upon exploding,
it yields Gold, Nitrogen and Ammonia. The exact composition is unknown because
it is too explosive to be dried.

Guanidine Nitrate CH5N3.HNO3

Guanidine is found in turnip juice, rice hulls and earthworms. It is used
in the preparation of this chemical, or, it can be made from Ammonium Nitrate
and Dicyanodiamide. To be of any value, it should be 95% pure. Guanidine
Nitrate is not explosive itself, but is used in the manufacture of explosives.
It is a white powder which melts at 210 degrees.

Gum Arabic

A dried, gummy, exudate from tropical trees. It is available as flakes,
fragments and powder. It is used as a binder in firework formulas.

Hexachlorethane CCl3.CCl3

Also known as Carbon Hexachloride, this chemical is used in smoke formulas
It can be obtained in either powder or crystals.

Indigo

A dark blue crystalline powder which is a commercial dye. You can purchase
either the technical or pure grade for smokes.

Iodine

Heavy grayish metallic looking crystals or flakes. Poisonous. Purchase the
U.S.P. grade. It is being used in making explosives.

Iron Fe

The granular powder (at least 99% pure) is needed for several firework
pieces. It is not a dangerous element but will rust very easily, making it
useless.

Iron(II) Oxide FeO

This black or brown powder is used in thermite mixtures as a oxidiser.
When ordering, it may be listed as Ferrous Oxide.

Kieselguhr

This is a whitish powder used in dynamites. It is a siliceous earth,
consisting mainly of diatoms. A good grade will absorb about four times its
own weight.

Lactose

Also called milk sugar. This white powder has a sweet taste. The crude
grade will work for smoke formulas.

Lampblack

This is another name for the element, carbon. It is a finely powdered
black dust, resulting from the burning of crude oils. It is used for special
effects in fireworks.

Lead Azide PbN6

This is a poisonous white powder which explodes by heating to 350 degrees
or by concussion. The main usage is in primers. It can be made from Sodium
Azide and Lead Nitrate.

Lead Bromate Pb(BrO3)2.H2O

Poisonous, colorless crystals. Pure Lead Bromate is not explosive unless
it is made from precipitated Lead Acetate with an alkali bromate. Made in this
manner, it can be exploded by rubbing or striking.

Lead Chloride PbCl2

It is available as a white crystalline, poisonous powder which melts at
501 degrees. It is used in fireworks.

Lead Dioxide PbO2

Also known as Brown Lead Oxide, this dark brown powder is used as an
oxidizer in matches and fireworks. Poisonous.

Lead Nitrate Pb(NO3)2

Available as white or colorless crystals in the technical grade. The uses
include matches and explosives. Poisonous.

Lead Oxide Pb3O4

Also known as Red Lead or Lead Tetroxide. A 95% purity is desired for
matches. Also poisonous.

Linseed Oil

Available in many forms: Brown, boiled, raw and refined. All are made from
the seed of the flax plant. The cheapest form is suitable for fireworks.
Purchase from a paint store.

Lithium Chloride LiCl

The technical grade is sometimes used to add color to fireworks
compositions. Available as a white powder.

Manganese Dioxide MnO2

Used in pyrotechnic mixtures, matches and match box friction surfaces.
Available as a technical grade, black powder. This oxidizer decomposes at 535
degrees.

Magnesium Mg

This metal is used in a powdered state for brilliancy in flares and will
even burn vigorously underwater and in carbon dioxide.

MP 650°C, BP 1107°C, Specific Gravity 1.74, Flash Point (Closed Cup)
634°C

Mercuric Chloride HgCl2

A white, poisonous powder. Also known as Corrosive Sublimate. It can be
made by subliming Mercuric Sulfate with ordinary table salt and then purified
by recrystallization. The U.S.P. grade is used for some firework compositions.

Mercuric Oxide HgO

Available in two forms; red and yellow. Both forms give the same oxidizing
effects in fireworks. The technical grade is suitable.. All forms are
poisonous.

Mercuric Oxycyanide HgO.Hg(CN)2

In the pure state it is a violent poison which will explode when touched
by flame or friction.

Mercuric Thiocyanate Hg(SCN)2

A poisonous, white odorless powder used in the making of Pharaoh"s
Serpents. Use the technical grade.

Mercurous Chloride HgCl

Also known as Calomel or Mercuric Monochloride. This white, non- poisonous
powder will brighten an otherwise dull colored mixture. Sometimes it is
replaced by PVC or Hexachlorobenzene and even Antimony Sulfide, for the same
purpose. Note that it is non poisonous only when it is 100% pure. Never
confuse this chemical with Mercuric Chloride, which is poisonous in any form.

Mercury Fulminate Hg(ONC)2.H2O

A crystalline compound used in primers, percussion caps, blasting caps and
other detonators. Explodes very easily from heat or shock.

Methylene Blue C16H18N3SCl

This dark green powder is used for smokes in the technical grade. Also
called Methylthionine Chloride.

Mineral Jelly

Also known as Vaseline, Petrolatum or Petroleum Jelly. This acts as a
stabilizer in fireworks and explosives.

Naphthalene

This is a tar product that you may know better as Moth Flakes. Only the
100% pure form should be used in making smoke powders. The melting point is
100 degrees.

Nitric Acid HNO3

Also known as Aqua Fortis. It is a clear, colorless corrosive liquid,
which fumes in moist air. It can react violently with organic matter such as
Charcoal, Alcohol or Turpentine and consequently must be handled Very
carefully. It is available in three forms: White fuming, Red Fuming and
Concentrated (70 to 71%). The latter, with a specific gravity of 1.42, is the
proper grade to buy. Whatever grade, avoid contact with the fumes or the
liquid. Contact with the skin will cause it to burn and turn yellow. It is
used to manufacture many explosives.

Nitroglycerin C3H5N3O9

A liquid with a sweet burning taste, but do not taste it or it will
produce a violent headache or acute poisoning. It can be made to explode by
rapid heating or percussion. It is used as an explosive and also to make other
explosives.

Nitroguanidine H2NC(NH)NHNO2

A yellow solid made by dissolving Fuanidine in concentrated Sulfuric Acid
and then diluting with water. Dangerous Explosive.

Nitromethane CH3NO2

An oily, poisonous liquid, which is used as rocket fuel.

Oil of Spike

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

Paraffin

This is a white or transparent wax. It is normally sold in a solid block.
You can use it to make the required powder.

Paranitroanaline Red
(H2NC6H4)3COH

A dye used in smoke formulas. It dissolves in alcohol and will melt at 139
degrees. It is also known as P-Aminophenyl.

Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate
C5H8N4O12

A high explosive known as PRTN. Besides being an explosive itself it is
used in a detonating fuse called Primacord.

Perchloryl Fluoride ClFO3

A gas under normal air pressure. When brought in contact with alcohol,
explosions have resulted.

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 degrees. When making a formula containing Phosphorous, be
sure to work with it in a WET STATE. This is a most dangerous chemical to work
with and should be handled only by the most experienced. Oxidizers have been
known to detonate violently without warning when mixed with Red Phosphorous.

Phosphorous Pentasulfide

Also known as Phosphoric Sulfide. These light yellow crystals are used in
matches.

Phosphorus Trisulfide P2S3

This chemical can catch fire from the moisture that is present in air,
therefore the container should be kept tightly capped. The technical grade,
purchased as grayish-yellow masses, is used in making matches.

Picric Acid

This is used to bring out and improve the tone of colors in various
fireworks. It is also used to make other chemicals that are used in fireworks
and explosives. Picric Acid can explode from heat or shock. It is interesting
to note what it is called in other countries: Britain - Lyddite; France -
Melinite; Japan - Shimose.

Plaster of Paris

This is a white powder, composed mostly of Calcium Sulfate. It is used, by
mixing with water, for end plugs in fireworks and also in some formulas.

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 Chlorate KClO3

This, perhaps, is one of the most widely used chemical in fireworks.
Before it was known, mixtures were never spectacular in performance. It opened
the door to what fireworks are today. It is a poisonous, white powder that is
used as an oxidizer. Never ram a mixture containing Potassium Chlorate. Do not
store mixtures which contain this chemical for any great length of time, as
they may explode spontaneously. It is extremely dangerous to include sulfur in
a mixture containing any chlorate, the mixture becomes up to ten times more
sensitive.

MP 356°C, Specific Gravity 2.32, Solubility 1-10%

Potassium Dichromate K2CR2O7

Also known as Potassium Bichromate. The commercial grade is used in
fireworks and matches. The bright orange crystals are poisonous. Also used in
smokes.

Potassium Ferrocyanide
K4Fe(CN)6.3H2O

Lemon yellow crystals or powder which will decompose at high temperatures.
It is used in the manufacture of explosives.

Potassium Nitrate KNO3

Commonly called Saltpeter; this chemical is an oxidizer which decomposes
at 400 degrees. It is well known as a component in gunpowder and is also used
in other firework pieces. Available as a white powder. Ingestion may cause
gastrointestinal pain, nausea and vomiting.

MP 334°C, Solubility 10%, Specific Gravity 2.11

Potassium Perchlorate KClO4

Much more stable than its Chlorate brother, this chemical is a white or
slightly pink powder. It can often substitute for Potassium Chlorate to make
the formula safer. It will not yield its oxygen as easily, but to make up for
this, it gives off more oxygen. It is also poisonous.

MP 610°C, Specific Gravity 2.52, Solubility 0.1-1%

Potassium Permanganate KMnO4

Is very soluble in water (forms a blue solution), produces a lot of smoke
when used, ignites spontaneously when in contact with glycerine, can produce a
purple flame when under the right conditions.

Potassium Picrate
C6H2KN3O7

A salt of Picric Acid, this chemical comes in yellow, reddish or greenish
crystals. It will explode when struck or heated. It is used in fireworks.

Potassium Thiocyanate KCNS

Colorless or white crystals which are used to make the Pharaoh's Serpent.
The commercial grade or pure grade is suitable.

n-Propyl Nitrate C3H7NC2

Prepared from Silver Nitrate and n-Propyl Bromide and is used as a jet
propellant

Red Gum

Rosin similar to shellac and can often replace it in many firework
formulas. Red gum is obtained from the bark of trees.

Rhodamine B

A basic fluorescent organic pigment also known as Rhodamine Red. Available
in green or red crystals or powder. It is used in smoke formulas.

Shellac

An organic rosin made from the secretion of insects which live in India.
The exact effect it produces in fireworks is not obtainable from other gums.
The common mixture of Shellac and Alcohol sold in hardware stores should be
avoided. Purchase the powdered variety, which is orange in color.

Silver Fulminate AgONC

A crystalline salt similar to Mercury Fulminate but more sensitive. In
fact, too sensitive for commercial blasting. It is used for toy torpedoes and
poppers.

Silver Oxide Ag2O

Dark brown, odorless powder. It is potentially explosive and becomes
increasingly more so with time. Keep away from Ammonia and combustible
solvents. The technical grade, which is about 92% pure, is suitable.

Sodium Aluminum Fluoride Na3AlF6

Also known as mineral, Cryolite. It is used in fireworks in the white
powdered form.

Sodium Bicarbonate NaHCO3

When a formula calls for this chemical, you can use Baking Soda (NOT
Baking Powder). It is a white, non-poisonous powder.

Sodium Carbonate NaCO3

This white powder is used in fireworks, but not to any great extent. The
anhydrous grade is best.

Sodium Chlorate NaClO3

An oxidizer similar to Potassium Chlorate, although not as powerful and
also with the disadvantage of absorbing water. Decomposes at 325 degrees.

Sodium Chloride NaCl

This is used in fireworks. You can use the common form, table salt (or
rock salt if made into a powder).

Sodium Nitrate NaNO3

Also known as Chile Saltpeter; very similar to Saltpeter, (Potassium
Nitrate). It is used where large amounts of powder are needed in fireworks and
explosives. It will absorb water as do other sodium salts.

Sodium Oxalate Na2C2O4

This is not a strong poison, but is poisonous, and you should not come in
contact with it or breathe the dust for any prolonged period. The technical
grade is best for making yellow fires.

Sodium Perchlorate NaClO4H2O

This chemical is used in fireworks and explosives. It is very similar to
Potassium Perchlorate with the exception that it will absorb water.

Sodium Peroxide Na2O2

A yellowish-white powder. It can explode or ignite in contact with organic
substances.

Sodium Picrate

Very similar to Potassium Picrate and should be handled with the same
precautions. It is also known under the name of Sodium Trinitrophenolate.

Sodium Silicate Na2SlO3.9H2O

This chemical, commonly called water glass, is used as a fireproof glue.
It is available in syrupy solution and can be thinned with water if necessary.
When dry it resembles glass, hence the name. It can, when desired, be
thickened with calcium carbonate, zinc oxide, powdered silica, or fiberglass
(chopped) if extra strength is desired.

Stearin

Colorless, odorless, tasteless, soapy crystal or powder. Sometimes
referred to as Stearic Acid. Purchase the technical grade, powder. It can
often take the place of Sulphur and Charcoal in fireworks.

Strontium Carbonate SrCO3

Known in the natural state as Strontianite, this chemical is used for
adding a red color to fires. It comes as a white powder in a pure, technical
or natural state.

Strontium Chloride SrCl2.6H2O

A colorless or white granulated chemical used in pyrotechnics. It will
absorb water and is not used often.

Strontium Nitrate Sr(NO3)2

By far the most common chemical used to produce red in flares, stars and
fires. Available in the technical powder grade. An oxidizer with 45% oxygen
and absorbs water.

Strontium Sulfate SrSO4

This does not absorb water as quickly as nitrate and is used when storage
is necessary. In its natural state it is known as Celestine, which compares to
grades used in fireworks.

Sulphur (Sulfur) S

Burns giving off choking fumes (sulfur dioxide). Forms three different
allotropes. Purchase good pyro grades low in acid. Used in many types of
fireworks and explosives.

MP 116°C, BP 445°C, Specific Gravity 2.01, Solubility negligible (<
0.1%), Flash Point 188°C.

Sulfuric Acid H2SO4

Also called Oil of Vitriol, it is a clear liquid with the consistency of a
thin syrup. Bottles should be kept tightly closed as it is a very corrosive
and dangerous chemical. It has a great affinity for water and will absorb it
from any source. The effect can be a charred surface or fire. The grade used
in explosives is 93-98%.

Sulfur Trioxide SO3

This powder will combine with water with explosive violence to form
Sulfuric Acid. If brought in contact with wood flour and a drop of water is
added, a fire will start. It is used to make some explosives.

Trinitrotoluene
(NO2)3C6H2CH3

Commonly known as TNT. The poisonous crystals are colorless in the pure
state. It is more powerful and expensive than Dynamite. If not confined it
will burn like dynamite. Used as a high explosive and to make others.

Wood Flour

This is merely another name for sawdust or wood meal. It is used in
fireworks and explosives.

Zinc Zn

Of all the forms, only the dust is suitable in the technical or high
purity grade. It is a gray powder used in star mixtures and for fuel in model
rockets.

Zinc Borate 3ZnO.2B2O3

A white amorphous powder used in making smoke formulas. A relatively safe
compound to handle.

Zinc Carbonate ZnCO3

Another white Zinc compound used in some smoke formulas. Also a safe
compound to handle.

Zinc Oxide ZnO
Sometimes called Flowers of Zinc. 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.

Please Note

This is a publication of the Western New York Pyrotechnic Association.
It may be reproduced in whole or in part without permission or compensation
providing:

credit is given to the Western New York Pyrotechnic Association

it is distributed free. If you plan to make a buck on it, we want a
piece of it!!

I have also made some additions to the information from a number of
rescources including MSDS documents.