A brief description

In brief, these fireworks produce either thick screens or mists of smoke, depending on what they are used for. The smoke is basically white in color. However, with the proper additives they can be colored yellow, green, red, purple, shades of blue or a combination of them.

Manufacturers make smoke bombs shaped like balls with tiny apertures on their sides through which the smoke can pass. Others manufacture smoking candles. These have a single large opening that shoots up the smoke. Smoke bombs manufactured for military purposes are usually covered with tin. These can resemble cans which emit smoke when a pin is pulled. Military models generally produce more smoke.

What substances do they make these bombs from

Two ingredients are required to make these bombs. First you need the oxygen donor. In most cases, the oxidant used is potassium nitrate (KNO3) whose three oxygen atoms combine with C atoms in the fuel to maintain the combustion. For stabilizing the chemical process initiated by igniting the substances, sodium bicarbonate is added.

The chemical process that takes place involves the transfer of three oxygen atoms from the nitrate to the carbon atoms in the sugar. Heat initializes this reaction. The byproducts of the reaction are potassium carbonate and water, both of which emit white vapors. Additionally, chlorine and CO2 are also produced. Because the reaction itself is kept under control with the presence of sodium bicarbonate, no considerable amount of flame is produced. The smoke itself may be impregnated with multiple colors by the use of dyes which are usually organic in nature.

If used properly, smoke bombs present little danger

For the manufacture of gunpowder it is the chlorate of potassium rather than potassium nitrate which is used. Prevalently, smoke bomb powder is created from the nitrate because it is safer. It is present in very small amounts in our food. If ingested in considerable quantities it causes inflammation and itching of the tissues but it is not toxic in the normal sense of the word.

Although potassium nitrate can easily oxidize materials which come in contact with it, it does not catch or burst into flame. It can, however rust metals and rot fruits. People who are in constant contact with it will have dry and itchy skin. However, no acute danger is associated with it.

The by-products emitted by igniting smoke bombs are harmless. Potassium carbonate is a water-softening agent which is also used for glazing porcelain. The only potentially dangerous substance emitted by the smoke bomb is the smoke itself. This is, however, pure carbon dioxide as witnessed by its white color.

Uses of smoke bombs

People find many uses for smoke fireworks. The most prevalent use of these gadgets is for enhancing the mood of celebrations with colored mists. The military uses them as camouflage screens. For this purpose the smoke needs to be really thick. Some games with a military theme, like airsoft and paintball make extensive use of these gadgets too. Likewise, they are employed in theatrical performances to provide the proper mood for certain scenes.

To do-it-yourself or not

Although you can easily cook (yes, you need to cook it!) the powder for these bombs, you are better off buying it ready made from pyrotechnics stores. There are certain risks involved even if these risks are minimal. It is a good idea, however, to seek the recommendations of people whom you can trust before approaching any vendor.

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Author Bio: Jameson Daniels is a writer for skylighter.com check out his colored smoke or his sky lantern or his home made smoke bomb.

Category: Education
Keywords: home made bomb, smoke bomb