Mixed colors by combustion of mixed homogeneous pyrotechnics and heterogeneous charges

Abstract

AbstractThe combustion of mixed homogeneous pyrotechnic compositions and heterogeneous charges is studied experimentally with the aim of producing a selectable wavelength signal flare. The heterogeneous charge was perceived as a mixed color by a distant observer. A model for color chromaticity coordinates of homogeneous mixtures was derived that includes the mass, mass‐based burn rate and luminous intensity ratios of the constituting color compositions. This model can predict the expected dominant wavelength of a mixed composition. It can also handle the spacing of chromaticity coordinates of mixed compositions on a straight line in the CIE diagram between chromaticity coordinates of constituting colors. With two series of color composition mixtures, it was demonstrated that the chromaticity coordinates of the mixtures could be at, or slightly deviate, from the straight line connecting the chromaticity coordinates of the constituting compositions. It indicates there is little to no influence of flame temperature and mutual pyrotechnic reactions.