Chemistry of Fireworks

For centuries fireworks have been a source of delight and amazement in cultures around the world. But what produces their dazzling array of effects. This book, a fully revised, extended and updated second edition explores the chemistry and physics behind the art of pyrotechnics. The objectives of the book are to provide the student with the essential principles behind chemical reactivity, the generation of noise, smoke and flame, which derive from the chemical ingredients and the way in which they are used. It introduces a particularly attractive branch of chemistry that students can easily reproduce (under supervision) in any laboratory equipt with a Bunsen burner and range of metal salts to give coloured flames or sparks. Its scope ranges from the history of gunpowder and fireworks in the UK, to the chemical characteristics of gunpowder, the form and functioning of all the main types of fireworks, special effects, fireworks safety and current fireworks legislation. The book opens with historical material, including unique historical photographs, and is valuable for its technical content. It then advances to a presentation on the characteristics of gunpowder, whose unique properties cause it to be the mainstay of the fireworks industry, even today. Succeeding chapters describe the manufacture and functioning of the most popular fireworks, including rockets, shells, fountains, roman candles, bangers, gerbs and wheels in a stimulating and easy assimilated way for those approaching the subject for the first time. The book covers current developments in the field including more robust and accurately timed fusing systems, the use of synthetic polymers as binders and 'daytime' fireworks. Chapters on fireworks safety, current legislation and a comprehensive glossary completes the book. Whilst this second edition is aimed at students with A level qualifications or equivalent, it is also intended to be useful background material and a source of reference for anybody engaged in the study of pyrotechnics as applied to fireworks. The style is concise and easy to understand and readers will gain a clear understanding of the science of fireworks in terms of recognised scientific principles.