Chemistry of Pyrotechnics: Basic Course

Course Registration Fee:  $1,950

The Chemistry of Pyrotechnics Basic Course is a week-long course designed to provide students with a firm understanding of the basic principles of pyrotechnics, propellants and explosives. These principles are presented from a chemistry perspective and will be understood by both students with a small amount of chemistry background and those more deeply involved with energetic chemistry.  The course is intended to be of interest to persons engaged in the design, manufacture, management, identification, regulation, analysis, disposal, and use of all types of energetic compositions.  All three areas: pyrotechnics, propellants, and explosives will be discussed in detail highlighting their similarities as well as their differences.  Each day, the principles discussed in the lectures will be demonstrated in the laboratory.  At the end of the week, students will be given the opportunity to mix and test very limited amounts of pyrotechnic compositions. Both the chemicals and the hands-on instructional materials will be provided.  Additionally, a copy of “Chemistry of Pyrotechnics – Basic Principles and Theory”, by Dr. John A. Conkling and Mr. Christopher Mocella, will be provided for each student.

Course content:

The course will loosely follow the second edition of “Chemistry of Pyrotechnics – Basic principles and theory”, by Dr. John A. Conkling and Mr. Christopher Mocella.  Dr. Jarrad Wagner of Oklahoma State University’s Center for Improvised Explosives (IMPEX) will provide the majority of the lectures throughout the week, with specific segments presented by the co-instructors.  Dr. Wagner will conduct daily laboratory demonstrations assisted by IMPEX Director of Training Mr. John Frucci.

Note that lodging is NOT included in the course fee. TCI will provide information for a recommended lodging facility.

Highlights from the course include:

— A review of the basic chemical and pyrotechnic principles — Components of energetic mixtures — Ignition, propagation, and sensitivity of pyrotechnic compositions — Systems and compositions for heat, light, color, smoke production, propulsion, and explosive effects