Abstract: A low temperature and low humidity process of making a pyrotechnic composition useful as gunpowder, a propellant or an explosive. The composition comprises an organic acid such as ascorbic or erythorbic acid, a nitrate salt oxidizer, and about 6-15% of potassium perchlorate, and has reduced residue upon use.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cleaner for removing gunpowder residues from the surfaces of firearms and to a method of use of such a cleaner. The cleaner comprises a liquid solution of an oxidizing agent, a liquid detergent surfactant, a scenting agent and an alcohol which is applied to the surfaces of the firearm, preferably with a mild abrasive action. In its preferred form the oxidizing agent is a 3% by weight solution of hydrogen peroxide and is present in the cleaner in an amount of 95% to 99% by weight, the liquid detergent surfactant is sodium dodecyl sulfate in an amount of 0.5% to 1% by weight to the total cleaner solution and the scenting agent is citric acid in an amount of 0% to 1% by weight. The alcohol may be any normal alcohol and is present in an amount of 0.5% to 3% by weight. A coloring agent may also be added.

Abstract: A pyrotechnic composition useful for gunpowder, propellant or explosive purposes, which comprises an organic acid such as ascorbic or erythorbic acid, a nitrate salt oxidizer, and about 6-15% of potassium perchlorate, has improved properties including reduced residue.