Composition of Fireworks
Inside every firework, there is gunpowder along with other chemicals that give different colors or effects. When lighted up, it ignites a small charge of gunpowder that creates heat through combustion and sets off the chain reaction in the rest of the substance leading to explosion and releasing bright colorful lights.
The fireworks are composed of various metal salts that are excited in a high energy state. The energy released from the chemical reaction causes the fireworks to explode. A quick chemical reaction is necessary for explosive fireworks.
Common features of fireworks are usually composed of a pasteboard tube and combustible material. Some fireworks have multiple tubes or cases, containing multiple colors and effects.
Main Fuel in Fireworks
Firework fuel is primarily gunpowder; potassium nitrate, charcoal and sulphur which generates enough energy to propel the firework and keep the firework burning for the required amount of time.
Hardest Color to Produce in Fireworks
Color blue. The color blue has been the Holy Grail for pyrotechnics experts since fireworks were invented more than a millennium ago. It’s by far the hardest color to produce.
Chemical Properties of Exploding Fireworks
Fireworks need plenty of oxygen to facilitate the burn, which is where oxidizers come in. Oxidizers release excess oxygen to make a better explosion. These chemicals used for the fuel and the oxidizer are some of the same ones found in standard gunpowder, which is an essential element in fireworks.
Can Fireworks Explode Without Being Lit?
The most important thing to note is that all consumer fireworks will need to be ignited for the explosion to happen. This means that fireworks cannot simply detonate. The firework will not go off in extreme heat because it must always have an ignition source to be exposed to the fuse.
Biggest Legal Firework
The biggest shell available in 1.4G consumer class fireworks is a 3 inch shell.
Elements Responsible for Colors in Fireworks
Making a firework involves three components – an oxidiser, a fuel and some special chemicals for the colours. The most commonly used fuels are charcoal or sulphur.