Abstract: Methods for producing a gas generator for a vehicle occupant restraint system with an autoignition means are disclosed. The autoignition composition used in the method preferably comprises Pb(SCN).sub.2 and chlorate oxidizer which undergo rapid autoignition at temperatures from approximately 190.degree.-220.degree. C. The inventive method provides for the use of aluminum for the gas generator housing. Through the method of this invention, autoignition compositions are safely manufactured by wet blending and are installed via automation in the interior of the inflator housing. When aluminum housings are used, a barrier material is used to prevent corrosion of the aluminum by the autoignition composition. Optionally, the dried autoignition material is coated with a protective substance to prevent water absorption and mechanical abrasion.

Abstract: An autoigniting composition comprising lead thiocyanate Pb(SCN).sub.2 as the fuel, a chlorate as the oxidizer and optionally, a binder and/or a flow agent/thickener are disclosed for use in a vehicle occupant restraint system. The autoignition composition undergoes rapid autoignition at temperatures from approximately 190.degree. to 220.degree. C. thereby allowing the use of aluminum for the gas generator housing. The autoignition compositions of the present invention are safely manufactured by wet blending and may be installed via automation to the interior of the inflator housing. When aluminum housings are used, a barrier material is used to prevent corrosion of the aluminum by the autoignition composition. Optionally the dried autoignition material is coated with a protective substance to prevent water absorption and mechanic abrasion.

Abstract: An autoignition system for use in a gas generator for a vehicle occupant restraint system is disclosed. The autoignition system comprises a globule of an autoignition composition adhering to the interior wall of an inflator housing. The system additionally comprises a barrier layer between the autoignition globule and an aluminum inflator housing. The system further comprises a coating over the globule to reduce abrasion of and water absorption into the autoignition globule. The autoignition system of the present invention is safely manufactured and installed via automation.