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What do I use for lift powder


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Posted

People have tried and been successful with pyrodex. There are some people that use it for break also.

 

Chlorate and sugar isn't the greatest idea. I'm sure you can find some nitrate if you can find chlorate. I'm not experienced with chlorate sugar mixes, but I believe it may work. Try in small amounts and small paper mortars first.

Posted
Doesn't sodium chlorate and sugar burn like potassium nitrate and sugar? Well, maybe a bit faster, but I believe it is far from fast enough. It is also hygroscopic and I try to stay as much away from sugar in pyro as I can since it will likely spoil whatever mixture it is in.
Posted
I do not know exactly how it behaves. I know it has a pretty good light output, but have only seen it in stars. The sugar would probably need to be baked dry first. Ball milling isn't an option because of the friction sensitivity chlorate sugar mixes have as well. So let is know if you try spike. Make sure to make detailed notes on preperation and ratios.
Posted

Sodium chlorate is also very hygroscopic and other than that is very similar to potassium chlorate in its oxidising properties, i know we do use some dangerous chemicals but there is no need to use them if there is a non toxic alternative. I would advise you stay well clear of the stuff unless you know exactly what you are dealing with.

 

You may want to look at this http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protecti...11/icsc1117.htm

Posted

Wyvern, your link is messed up. The correct link is http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protecti...11/icsc1117.htm

 

Pyrodex can work for lift powder, but it is not as good as black powder, not to mention being costly. Sugar/chlorate will not work as a lift powder, it burns too hot and slow, it will likely lob the shell a mere 20 feet and have it explode on the ground, or even in the mortar.

 

Black powder has worked for hundreds of years, it is proven as both safe(well, atleast far safer than just about anything else) and effective. Trying to reinvent the wheel here is unnecessary, especially when I read of people using acetone peroxide, flash powder, CuO thermite, or whatever the hell you have at hand.

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