Potassium nitrate bomb. The material is soluble in water.
Potassium nitrate bomb If large quantities of the material are involved in the fire or the combustible material is finely divided an explosion may result. May 19, 2015 · It's easy and inexpensive to make a smoke bomb without potassium nitrate or ping pong balls. Aug 21, 2025 · A standard bomb uses potassium nitrate, sugar, and organic dye (optional) to produce vibrant, colored smoke, but you can also make DIY smoke bombs with ping pong balls or newspaper. 4. g. How to Make Smoke Bombs with Baking Soda and Sugar? A Definitive Guide Making smoke bombs with baking soda and sugar involves carefully heating a precise mixture of these common household ingredients to create a chemical reaction that produces a thick, non-toxic smoke. Mar 13, 2025 · Black powder is a low explosive material comprised of potassium nitrate (saltpeter), sulfur and charcoal. In general, a federal explosives license or permit under the federal explosives regulations at 27 CFR, Part 555 is required to purchase black powder. This, from what I've read, burns at a lower temperature and can produce colored smoke. This smoke bomb composition is called the "Legendary" because the creator called it that. It burns with a lilac flame. Feb 5, 2018 · Posted in chemistry hacks Tagged potassium nitrate, Rocket Candy, smoke, smoke bomb, smoke device ← Black Holes And The Elusive Mystery That Lies Within An Equation Feb 25, 2018 · White smoke can easily be made with a mixture of 60% Potassium Nitrate and 40% Sorbitol. It decomposes to potassium nitrite and oxygen when heated. I can easily see through it and was wondering if anyone had a better formula or a modification to the KNO3 and sugar mixture. Flash powder is a pyrotechnic composition, a mixture of an oxidizer and a metallic fuel, which burns quickly (deflagrates) and produces a loud noise, regardless of confinement in some formulations. A mixture of antimony trisulfide and potassium nitrate explodes at a red heat [Mellor 9:524 1946-47]. I have made some smoke bombs with the standard potassium nitrate and sugar mixture but it doesn't produce very thick smoke. Apr 4, 2025 · This article will explain to you how to make a smoke bomb. The most popular combination of KNO3 is a proportion of it and powdered sugar. It dissolves in water. All that was left was a small blob of molten metal. Skin and eye contact. Gunpowder for muzzleloading firearms in granulation size American Civil War re-enactors volley firing with black powder Flash pan starter dispenser Gunpowder, also commonly known as black powder to distinguish it from modern smokeless powder, is the earliest known chemical explosive. For instance, the mixture of potassium nitrate, carbon and sulfur in the perfect ratio constitutes what is popularly known as gunpowder. For example, you could mix 1-1/2 cups potassium nitrate and 1 cup sugar or 3 cups potassium nitrate and 2 cups sugar. Nov 4, 2025 · It became popular in a short time because, although it did not produce as high a quality explosive as potassium nitrate, it was suitable for most mining and construction applications and was much less expensive. May 29, 2022 · Learn how to make a smoke bomb with sugar and potassium nitrate. Blue and orange dye work the best, but you can use any color dye you wish. It is a potassium salt of nitric acid. : May cause slight irritation. Sep 27, 2025 · Potassium nitrate (KNO3), an ionic white crystalline salt made up of potassium ions and nitrate ions. While the potassium nitrate/sugar smoke bomb is melting, add the ammonium nitrate/PVC glue/ping pong ball mixture and stir them all together. Pack the mixture tightly into the cardboard tube, leaving a little space at the top. One of the best methods to create a smoke grenade is basically a mixture of potassium nitrate and sugar Potassium Nitrate is a transparent, white or colorless, crystalline (sand-like) powder or solid with a sharp, salty taste. It is a common source of the nitrate ion. 3. One of them was that gunpowder is a ‘low explosive’ because it is a mixture: when its potassium nitrate decomposes, the released oxygen has to diffuse to the Mar 30, 2015 · Ask a prepper how to make a real smoke grenade. Jun 2, 2025 · These early blends were flammable but not explosive, as they lacked refined potassium nitrate. Thermal decomposition can lead to the release of irritating gases and vapors. Jul 25, 2013 · I used the "Legendary Smoke Mix" with the ratios 40g crushed paraffin wax, 40g sugar, and 60g KNO3 or potassium nitrate. Fill a cardboard tube with the mixture and insert a fuse to ignite your smoke bomb safely. Pyrodex is composed of potassium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, sodium benzoate, dicyanodiamide, sulfur, and charcoal and is available in various grain sizes and pellet forms. In a potassium nitrate and sugar smoke bomb for pest elimination, the addition of sulfur can indeed enhance the effectiveness of the smoke bomb. 5. You can usually find it at garden supply stores, as it's used in fertilizers. Though potassium nitrate is found Another high explosive made from ammonium nitrate is AN-AL (ammonium nitrate/aluminum powder). This salt consists of potassium cations K+ and nitrate anions NO− 3, and is therefore an alkali metal nitrate. 30]. [3] Measure out 1 1/2 cups of potassium nitrate and 1 cup sugar for a decent-sized smoke bomb. Make the potassium nitrate/sugar smoke bomb (melted). Fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate, urea, and potassium nitrate, are commonly used in agriculture to promote plant growth. Jun 23, 2017 · In your skillet, combine 3 parts potassium nitrate (Spectracide in my case) and 2 parts sugar. Then shake until it is mixed well. Jun 1, 2025 · Urea nitrate from urine Urea nitrate is an explosive compound that can be made from urine. Its pH is almost neutral. This is a very simple compound requiring only mixing of 4 parts finely powdered AN with 1 part aluminum powder and resulting in a very powerful explosive. Put Print SMOKE BOMBS By far, the most common smoke formula is the Potassium Nitrate/Sugar formula. Or if you do, make sure it's under supervision of a May 29, 2025 · What is a Fertilizer Bomb? A fertilizer bomb is a type of improvised explosive device (IED) that uses fertilizer as the primary explosive material. Using just granulated sugar and potassium nitrate, Brian and Jason make a smoke bomb potent enough to flood the garage. It produces a white-gray smoke and is easy, inexpensive, and fun to make. The potassium chloride can be found in the grocery store as a table salt alternative. It is widely used in theatrical and display pyrotechnics and consumer fireworks (namely firecrackers, professional salutes, and formerly in banned items such as cherry bombs and M-80s) and was once May 16, 2024 · In a potassium nitrate and sugar smoke bomb for pest elimination, the addition of sulfur can indeed enhance the effectiveness of the smoke bomb. Potassium nitrate is a strong oxidizer. We put a giant potassium nitrate bomb into a metal container. Uses of potassium nitrate include the manufacture of fertilizers, pesticides, glass, fireworks, explosives, and rocket fuels. These amounts yielded a small, 1/3 lb smoke bomb for the how-to demonstration. First add 50% potassium nitrate to a glass jar. The Jun 24, 2020 · But, it’s not an essential ingredient. It is used to make explosives, matches, fertilizer, fireworks, glass and rocket fuel. 1 day ago · A search of properties linked to Mubin led to the seizure of potassium nitrate, red phosphorus, PETN powder, batteries, and other materials suspected to be related to DIY bomb-making techniques propagated via encrypted social media platforms. Read on to learn several ways to make a smoke bomb with potassium nitrate and sugar, ping pong balls or Sep 7, 2006 · The smoke bomb you would purchase from a fireworks store usually is made from potassium chlorate (KClO3 - oxidizer), sugar (sucrose or dextrin - fuel), sodium bicarbonate (otherwise known as baking soda - to moderate the rate of the reaction and keep it from getting too hot), and a powdered organic dye (for colored smoke). While relatively simple in concept, the process requires strict adherence to safety precautions and careful execution to avoid Nobel’s name was made in explosives, but what about the chemistry behind them? As a chemistry student, I learnt many half-truths. p. Delayed adverse effects possible. 1946-47]. It consists of a mixture of sulfur, charcoal (which is mostly carbon), and potassium nitrate (saltpeter). A chemical reaction is triggered when the mixture is exposed to heat or even a mere spark. The two ingredients, when stirred over low heat, yield a thick, peanut butter-like mixture used to produce smoke. Mar 31, 2016 · It is easy to make a homemade smoke bomb using potassium nitrate and sugar. This mix can be used to make black powder, smoke, or rocket fuel so be careful Mar 6, 2012 · Instant cold packs use ammonium nitrate and water to start an endothermic reaction. It is noncombustible but it will accelerate the burning of combustible materials. Includes recipes for colored smoke bombs. You can make a smoke bomb using just the 3:2 ratio of potassium nitrate to sugar or a 5:3 ratio of potassium nitrate to sugar (e. Increasing the sugar helps the smoke bomb burn more slowly and produce smoke, but makes it harder to light. The MSDS for potassium nitrate provides handling and safety details, but I'll summarize the relevant points. Cover the top of the tube with aluminum foil, leaving a small hole in the center. To do this I suggest using a small blade coffee mill. A mixture of potassium cyanide and nitrite salts may cause an explosion [Pieters 1957. This is the easy and classic homemade smoke bomb recipe. Mix the potassium nitrate, sugar, baking soda, and powdered dye (if using) in a bowl. Instructions: 1. Here's how to use a ping pong ball to make a smoke bomb. Prolonged exposure of the material to fire or heat may result in an explosion Oct 19, 2023 · In the case of an explosive, this transaction is exothermic, meaning that it releases heat upon completion. Nov 2, 2023 · In this study, a homemade chlorate explosive, with potassium chlorate and fuel set up in a pipe bomb, and a cotton glove that had been contaminated with firework residues, were analyzed. Jul 28, 2025 · Ingredients Potassium Nitrate (60 grams): This is the primary oxidizer in our smoke bomb. Arsenic disulfide forms explosive mixtures with potassium nitrate [Mellor 9:270 1946-47]. , 1-1/2 cups potassium nitrate and 1 cup sugar). . Triple Seven is composed of potassium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, sodium benzoate, dicyanodiamide, charcoal Nitrate Blends ANFO Ammonium Nitrate (AN) Diesel Fuel (FO) Ammonium Nitrate (AN) Aluminum Powder (AI ) Ammonium Nitrate Sulfur Powder Ammonium Nitrate Icing Sugar Potassium Nitrate ANAI ANS Ready to make your own amazing smoke bomb? Whether you want to make smoke for a dramatic special effect, a chemistry experiment or simply because you love smoke, this tutorial will show you how to make a fantastic smoke bomb with just a few ingredients you can easily get at the store. 1946-47]. For a dry smoke bomb, grind your potassium nitrate, mix in the remaining powders, pour into your container, and finally, light the smoke bomb. The Heart of the Cloud: Potassium Nitrate While there can be variations and additions depending on the desired effect, potassium nitrate (KNO3) is generally considered the active ingredient in many smoke bombs. Potassium nitrate cannot reliably/easily be used to make colored smoke. : May cause moderate irritation. A mixture of potassium nitrate and sodium hypophosphite constitutes a powerful explosive [Mellor 8:881. The potassium nitrate crystallizes while the ammonium chloride remains a liquid. All you need are 2 inexpensive materials. Urine contains urea, which can be reacted with nitric acid to form urea nitrate. The percentage of potassium nitrate and sugar in this composition vary somewhat depending on who you ask, but the 60/40 mix listed below is pretty common. Ratio used is 6:4, Potassium nitrate to sugar (using granulated sugar or powdered sugar b Learn how to make a smoke bomb with simple ingredients like sugar and potassium nitrate. To distinguish between them, the potassium nitrate and sodium nitrate versions came to be known as A and B blasting powder respectively. Potassium nitrate safety data including chemical properties, hazards, handling precautions, and first aid measures. Make the Smoke Bomb The classic recipe calls for 3 parts potassium nitrate to 2 parts sugar. It's also available online. However, an Pyrodex and Triple Seven are commercial black powder substitutes manufactured by Hodgdon Powder Company. Sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate is a white crystalline solid. A mixture of powdered zirconium and potassium nitrate explodes when heated above the melting point [Mellor 7:116. Make sure to purchase pure potassium nitrate for the best results. May 13, 2025 · Making a smoke bomb at home is an easy and quick project. The material is soluble in water. Adding too much sugar will create a bomb that is difficult to ignite and burns quite slowly. The potassium ion burns with a characteristic violet flame. A mixture of antimony trisulfide and potassium nitrate explodes at a red heat [Mellor 9:524. The project won't harm your cookware, plus the ingredients are safe enough that you can use the dishes you would use for eating, as long as you clean them. Over time, with the refinement of potassium nitrate from sources like urine, gunpowder evolved into a potent explosive, playing a significant role in military conflicts and even finding continued use in modern fireworks. Jul 17, 2025 · The answer, in short, is a carefully crafted mix, but the star of the show is usually potassium nitrate. A lump of this stuff the size of your thumb produced the smoke cloud in May 22, 2025 · Light your smoke bomb in safe area and if you have trouble lighting, try again with more precise measurements. Jun 15, 2019 · Question 1: Why do you need substantially less potassium nitrate than as indicated by the chemical equation? Now, in terms of the smoke grenade, an alternate formula I've seen used involves potassium chlorate (oxidizer) and lactose (same as sucrose). When a commercial smoke bomb is burned, the reaction makes white smoke The FBI revealed that it found a "significant amount of bomb-making materials and chemicals" in the home of Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the perpetrator of the New Orleans terrorist attack where 14 people Aug 22, 2025 · Are Smoke Bombs Safe to Breathe? Smoke bombs are not safe to breathe, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas. : On Dec 5, 2019 · We are inducing the two chemicals to exchange ions so that ammonium nitrate and potassium chloride become potassium nitrate and ammonium chloride. 2. The recipe calls for two ingredients: ordinary sugar and potassium nitrate (also known as May 7, 2024 · It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines when using smoke bombs for mole extermination. It is also used as a food preservative, and when added to meat it Dec 2, 2019 · Smoke bombs are made by reacting potassium nitrate (saltpeter) with sugar over low burner heat. Or 50/50 Potassium Nitrate and common sugar (sucrose). For this initial bomb, I went small and did tablespoons (3 of Spectracide, 2 of sugar). However, when mixed with other substances, they can become deadly Symptoms/effects after skin contact Symptoms/effects after eye contact Symptoms/effects after ingestion Other information : Not classified : Inhalation. Read on to learn how! Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound with a sharp, salty, bitter taste and the chemical formula KNO3. Before getting started you will need to reduce both the Sugar and Potassium Nitrate to fine powders that can easily pass through a 60-mesh screen. Sugar (40 grams): Regular table sugar (sucrose) acts as the fuel in our mixture. Jul 27, 2010 · I learned how to make smoke bombs when I was 12 by reading a recipe in Abbie Hoffman's Steal This Book. It's readily available at any grocery store. It occurs in nature as a mineral, niter (or nitre outside the United States). Then 40% sugar, and 10% baking soda. Please do not attempt. You generally must use potassium chlorate and a cool burning fuel, along with very expensive (and messy) synthetic dyes. I tried 3:2, 5:3, and 1:1 with the 5:3 giving the best results. Slowly add water to the mixture while stirring continuously until you have a thick paste. They release a mixture of chemicals, including potassium chlorate, dyes, and sulfur-based compounds, which can irritate the respiratory tract when inhaled. : Irritation of the respiratory tract. org Jun 10, 2025 · Making a smoke bomb at home needs adult supervision and the right dye for bright colors. What kind of cool designs can you make? Oct 30, 2017 · The potassium nitrate makes it easier for the sugar to burn. This is by far the best recipe and even beginners will be cooking up smoke bombs in no time Measure 60 grams potassium nitrate and of sugar. Smoke Bombs Rocket Fuel Explosives Potassium Nitrate does not work well in pipe bombs or bottles because it is an oxidizing reaction, that means that it needs air to react. It can be used for other things such as stabilizing Ammonium Nitrate but its not practical when simpler, cheaper chemicals work just as well Potassium nitrate is a colorless solid. Mar 27, 2010 · How to make a Smoke bomb/Rocket Candy with Potassium Nitrate (KNO3). Sulfur is known for its insecticidal properties and can act as an additional deterrent for pests. While used as a propellant in fireworks and pyrotechnics, it is also used in some ammunition and muzzleloaders. Mix your potassium nitrate (60 g) with sugar (40 g). A mixture of sodium acetate and potassium nitrate may cause an explosion [Pieters 1957. If you don't have any weighing scales, See full list on sciencenotes. Urea accounts for about 2% of urine. [7] It is a source of nitrogen, and nitrogen was named after You need 3 parts potassium nitrate and 2 parts sugar. This process is relatively simple but time-consuming. Try making a trail of gunpowder like in the cartoons. Adding too much potassium nitrate will create a bomb that lights quickly and burns up fast. It is far better than the normal Potassium nitrate and sucrose composition. Mixing potassium nitrate and sugar over heat creates a base which turns smooth like peanut butter. Arsenic disulfide forms explosive mixtures when mixed with potassium nitrate, [Mellor 9:270. This formula produces billowing colored smoke. Place the smoke bomb on Jan 18, 2022 · How to Make a Ninja Smoke Bomb To make a classic ninja smoke bomb, you’ll need potassium nitrate (also called saltpeter or KNO3), as well as household table sugar. Jun 4, 2020 · It's easy to make a smoke bomb! You don't even need any fancy chemicals, like potassium nitrate or ammonium nitrate. nddrhkgjmupvwxzkygtpitjsbqxiyigvkghybaximatezczziqjjkvmxwikhcxtldmthgkuilzwhndvps