Careers in Chemistry
Pyrotechnics
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What is Pyrotechnics? Pyrotechnics is a field of study that is primary thought as of fireworks, although it has a wider scope with military and industrial uses such as matches, oxygen candles, and safety air bags. Pyrotechnics are also used in the aviation field and mostly used in the entertainment industry. Most of the pyrotechnics are produced by small metal particles of titanium, magnalium, steel or zirconium. This is were chemistry is very important for this field of expertise. Although a chemistry major is not normally required to be an expert pyrotechnician, it is an essential aspect in order to be safe.
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| "The use of explosions, flashes, smoke, flames or other propellant driven effects on-stage is known as Proximate Pyrotechnics." Many sporting events use pyrotechnics to enhance the event such as the superbowl and many wrestling events. Pyrotechnics are used everyday as life saving devices such as air bags and road flares. Fireworks and other devices come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. "A basic pyrotechnic device consists of a sufficiently strong and non-flammable container to hold its active contents, which comprise either flammable compositions, like nitrocellouse and/or blackpowder or a mixture of a fuel and oxidiser blended in situ." Safety is a must in this field or somthing like the picture in the bottom left could happen. This is why chemistry is important in this career. |
| References: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrotechnics http://www.creative-effects.com/Pyrotechnics/pyrotechnics.html
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Page prepared by: Kyle Thompson
