Improve pyrotechnic smoke formulations that produce low flame

The objective of this research is to develop materials that may replace the current generation of visible smoke formulations used by the U.S. military. In particular the materials must produce low flame so that they do present a fire hazard, have relatively low toxicity, and are efficient. The efficiency is defined in a figure of merit that combines fill factor, yield factor, extinction coefficient and density. Additionally, other targets are neutral buoyancy and volatility that affect obscurant duration. Polaris and LSU propose a novel method based on polymeric chemistry to provide formulations that accomplish all of the objectives listed above. We have demonstrated formulations in the lab that provide high density smokes with low toxicity and low temperatures of reaction. For this proposal the Polaris / LSU team will refine the mixtures and delivery concepts to meet the guidelines established by the Army. We will build sample units, optically test samples in an aero-chamber to validate the extinction coefficients, and develop models to aid designing discharge devices.