Abstract: Provided is a method to initiate and analyze chemical derivatives formed from pyrotechnic smoke reactions. Milligram quantities of a lab-scale pyrotechnic smoke composition are reacted by encapsulation with a metal probe that is rapidly heated, which then sublimes the organic dye, allowing for the testing of all of the gas-phase products for identification by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The thermally decomposed ingredients and new side product derivatives are identified at lower relative abundances compared to the intact organic dye. Any remaining residues within the thermal probe are optionally reconstituted into solution for further analysis by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry if desired. The results are processed via a machine learning quantitative structure-activity relationship model that provides data related to health and environmental hazards.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for evaluating reaction molecular byproducts of pyrotechnic reactions. A closed calorimetry bomb holds pyrotechnic material, which is detonated by a charge. The calorimetry bomb is vented directly into a gas chromatography machine, where gas phase molecules are separated based on their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation. The remaining residual solids within the bomb are extracted and injected into a liquid chromatography instrument where they are separated by their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation pattern. The method provides a complete picture of the reaction pathways and products to aid in regulatory compliance of incorporating energetic materials into real-world applications, particularly those in the family of PFAS containing compositions.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for evaluating reaction molecular byproducts of pyrotechnic reactions. A closed calorimetry bomb holds pyrotechnic material, which is detonated by a charge. The calorimetry bomb is vented directly into a gas chromatography machine, where gas phase molecules are separated based on their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation. The remaining residual solids within the bomb are extracted and injected into a liquid chromatography instrument where they are separated by their polarity. The separated molecules are then injected into a mass spectrometer and characterized by their mass fragmentation pattern. The method provides a complete picture of the reaction pathways and products to aid in regulatory compliance of incorporating energetic materials into real-world applications, particularly those in the family of PFAS containing compositions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for modifying or amplifying explosive devices through electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Exemplary embodiments provide increased energy density to an explosive reaction zone to allow increased blast overpressures, detonation velocity, and energy release without changing the explosive materials or quantity of explosives. An exemplary embodiment irradiates a reaction zone immediately before an explosive detonates to modify the explosive properties of an explosive device. Exemplary embodiments utilize automated targeting of EMR sources for precise modification of explosions with standardized and predictable effects.

Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods for modifying and enhancing pyrotechnic emissions and effects are provided including systems for irradiating pyrotechnic emissions using electromagnetic radiation sources with programmable electromagnetic radiation profiles. Exemplary systems include coupling an electromagnetic radiation source to a pyrotechnic device to irradiate pyrotechnic emissions or irradiating pyrotechnic emissions with an external electromagnetic radiation source. Exemplary methods include identifying a desired pyrotechnic emission output and designing an emission and effect output to meet the desired output.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for modifying or amplifying explosive devices through electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Exemplary embodiments provide increased energy density to an explosive reaction zone to allow increased blast overpressures, detonation velocity, and energy release without changing the explosive materials or quantity of explosives. An exemplary embodiment irradiates a reaction zone immediately before an explosive detonates to modify the explosive properties of an explosive device. Exemplary embodiments utilize automated targeting of EMR sources for precise modification of explosions with standardized and predictable effects.

Abstract: Exemplary systems and methods for modifying and enhancing pyrotechnic emissions and effects are provided including systems for irradiating pyrotechnic emissions using electromagnetic radiation sources with programmable electromagnetic radiation profiles. Exemplary systems include coupling an electromagnetic radiation source to a pyrotechnic device to irradiate pyrotechnic emissions or irradiating pyrotechnic emissions with an external electromagnetic radiation source. Exemplary methods include identifying a desired pyrotechnic emission output and designing an emission and effect output to meet the desired output.