Apparatus and Method for High‐Throughput Screening of Pyrotechnic Compositions

During early stages of the pyrotechnics research and development process, it is sometimes unclear what pyrotechnic characteristics a given composition will exhibit. Thermochemical modeling software can assist in determining whether or not a reaction is theoretically possible. However, these calculations and databases do not consider combustion kinetics. Additionally, without qualitative observation of a reaction, it is hard to determine what application a given formulation might be useful for. Initial testing methods do not need to be overly complicated to provide useful observational data for planning future experiments. In this article, one such method involving a channel burning apparatus based on interchangeable parts and designed for high‐throughput screening is presented. Its utility is demonstrated through rapid testing of 39 different pyrotechnic formulations. Across these 39 compositions, observed burning times spanned a range of more than four orders of magnitude. Even from tests involving few samples, stark differences in combustion times and qualitative characteristics are apparent. Advantages and disadvantages of such an apparatus and method are discussed.