The pyrotechnic compositions that produce the vibrant displays observed in aerial shells rely primarily on black powder, a mixture of potassium nitrate (an oxidizer), charcoal (a fuel), and sulfur (a stabilizer and fuel). This composition provides the foundational explosive force that launches and initiates the various effects. Different metallic compounds are then added to create specific colors; for example, strontium salts produce red, barium salts produce green, and copper salts produce blue.
The effective utilization of these compositions is paramount for creating visually appealing and safe pyrotechnic events. Historically, the development and refinement of these mixtures have been central to advancements in pyrotechnic artistry. Early formulations lacked the color intensity and reliability of modern mixtures, highlighting the significant progress achieved through chemical research and experimentation.
