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The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives - Sciencemadness Dot Org

The Chemistry of Powder and Explosives - Sciencemadness Dot Org

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110<br />

PYROTECHNICS<br />

pedoes were formerly filled with compositions containing chlorate<br />

<strong>and</strong> red phosphorus, similar to those which are used in toy caps;<br />

but these mixtures are dangerous <strong>and</strong> much more sensitive than<br />

FIGURE 36 Packing Globe Torpedoes in Wood Shavings (Courtesy National<br />

Fireworks Company <strong>and</strong> the Boston Globe )<br />

is necessary. At present, safer perchlorate mixtures without<br />

phosphorus are used. <strong>The</strong> following compositions (Allen F<br />

Clark) can be mixed dry <strong>and</strong> yield railway torpedoes which will<br />

not explode from ordinary shock or an accidental fall.<br />

Potassium perchlorate<br />

Antimony sulfide<br />

Sulfur<br />

6 5<br />

1<br />

12 9<br />

3

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