Abstract: The invention provides a pyrotechnic composite and process for preparing the same, wherein the pyrotechnic composite comprises a mixture of an alkaline earth metal sulfate, particulate boron and at least one additional particulate metal which is capable of exothermically reacting with boron. The exothermic reaction between the components of the pyrotechnic composite releases a thermal radiation of at least about 300 W/cm.sup.2 -Steradian and a visible light energy of at least about 1.0.times.10.sup.4 LUX.

Abstract: A method for producing an impregnating petroleum pitch in two steps. In the first step, aromatic oils undergo polymerization with a controlled feed of an oxygen-containing gas at a temperature of less than 700.degree. F to a softening point of from about 30.degree. to about 100.degree. C, and in a second step, the pitch is stripped under controlled conditions in an inert environment to a softening point of between 100.degree.-135.degree. C. This low temperature with controlled stripping permits the formation of an impregnating pitch having a beta resin content of less than about 15% with a low quinoline insolubles content, and a Conradson Carbon of about 50%.Benzene Insolubles, as herein disclosed, are determined by ASTM D-2317; Quinoline Insolubles are determined by ASTM D-2318; Conradson Carbon is determined by ASTM D-189; and Softening Point by ASTM D-3104.