Abstract:
Energetic and rapid burning compositions suitable for use as a rapid deflagrating material, for ignition of other materials, e.g., hot wire ignition and/or for use in primers and the like, are prepared by dissolving in aqueous solution one or more powerful oxidizer salts such as alkali metal, especially potassium perchlorates, chlorates, chromates, or nitrates, along with a cyano metal complex fuel such as potassium or sodium ferricyanide, ferrocyanide, cobaltocyanide, or closely similar materials, then coprecipitating by pouring the aqueous solution into a water-compatible organic non-solvent liquid such as C2 to C4 monohydric alcohol. Specifically disclosed are compositions of major proportions of potassium perchlorate or dichromate and minor proportions of potassium ferricyanide K3Fe(CN)6, or the analogous cobaltate K3Co(CN)6. The reaction product is precipitated from the water solution by dumping it into an excess of 2-propanol. The precipitation procedure produces a much smoother and more homogeneous product than comparable prior art pyrotechnic materials. The products have a burning velocity which is intermediate between those of conventional pyrotechnic ignition materials and detonating materials such as ''''Primacord'''' and similar products.