Calorimetric bomb test as a method for the selection of optimal boron powder for pyrotechnic applications

Mirjana Krstović1, 2, Jelena Petković-Cvetković1, Ivan Dimitrijević3, Aleksandar Ćitić1, Danica Bajić1, 2

1 Military Technical Institute, Belgrade, Serbia
2 Military Academy, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia
3 University of Belgrade, Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, Belgrade, Serbia

Abstract. The performance of energetic formulations is highly influenced by their chemical composition and by the physical properties of the ingredients. The choice of metal powders as often used fuel components in propellants, pyrotechnics, and explosives, plays a crucial role in determining their decomposition performance, i.e., their combustion characteristics. This study investigates the application of calorimetry as an analytical method to select the optimal boron powder for pyrotechnic mixtures B/KNO₃, focusing on the influence of particle size. Selected nano- to micron-sized boron powders were first analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and particle size analyses. They were incorporated in pyrotechnic mixtures containing potassium nitrate and phenol-formaldehyde resin. These pyrotechnic formulations with boron powders of different particle sizes were systematically tested for their heat release and combustion efficiency using a calorimetry bomb test to determine their energetic potential, and measurement of combustion velocity. The results reveal a significant correlation between particle size and the thermal behavior of the pyrotechnic mixture, with smaller particles exhibiting faster combustion rates and higher heat output. By analyzing the calorimetric data, the study identifies the ideal boron particle size for maximizing energy release and improving the overall performance of B/KNO₃-based pyrotechnic formulations. These findings provide valuable insights into potential directions of design optimization of more efficient and controlled pyrotechnic compositions.

Keywords: calorimetric bomb test; energetic potential; boron powder; particle size; pyrotechnic mixture


ID: 33, Contact: Danica Bajić, simic_danica@yahoo.com NTREM 2025