Question

Case example I: A white powder was submitted to determine if it was a pyrotechnic compound. What is the general composition of pyrotechnic powders? Give a few tests that you would conduct to determine the presence of these components.

Thanks!

Answer 1

The basis of pyrotechnic compositions is a two-part mixture: (1) an oxidant, such as NaNO₃ or Ba(NO₃)2 and (2) a metallic powder having a high combustion heat, for example, aluminum or magnesium or their alloys .Pyrotechnic compositions have formulas that are similar to the formulas of mixtures used for photoflash bombs in night aerial photography.

General composition = Flash poder+ gun powder + solid propellants + gas generators + ejection charges + burst charges +delay compositions + flares + sparklers + smoke compositions.

Tests to determine these compounds

1.Mechanical insult test- friction

2. Electrostatic discharge test

3.Mechanical insult test-impact

4. flame test