Buzz
A signal flare is a lit rocket or smoke flare that notifies someone of your presence. Throughout the history of rocket development, both military and civilian authorities have relied on smoke and light flares to communicate and save lives. Commercial and military units vary in size and functionality. Smaller units are now readily available for campers and hikers. Since many people prefer to make their own camping and hiking supplies, there is a general interest in both smoke and color-burning flares. While DIY projects to build mercuric oxide-based burning-light flares are prohibited, smoke flares can be easily produced.
Steps
Signal flare #1
Combine the potassium nitrate and aluminum powder. Other metals will work, such as copper powder, zinc powder, potassium permanganate makes a purple flame.
Simmer the mixture over low heat for some time, then remove it and let it cool in a bucket or similar container.
Introduce the bonding agent into the mixture and allow it to sit for a while.
Once the mixture is about halfway through drying, transfer it into your cylindrical tube. Additionally, insert a few matches while it dries.
Ignite it. Place it on the ground and enjoy the show.
Signal flare #2
Combine 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 3/4 cup of potassium nitrate in a sealable container or jar. Shake and rotate the container to ensure thorough mixing.
Ignite a propane camp stove in a safe, outdoor area. Reduce the flame to a low setting. Most propane stoves will produce a flame about 1/4 inch high at this setting.
Transfer the flare mixture to a sturdy skillet and heat it gradually. Stir continuously. As the flare compound heats, it will begin to resemble melted plastic or chewed gum in consistency. Once it becomes pliable enough to roll in the skillet, it is ready.
Take the skillet off the heat and let the mixture cool for 30 minutes.
Shape the cooled flare substance into a long, rectangular bar. Insert three matches, with the wooden ends first, into one end of the flare. Push them in until the base of the match head touches the material.
Enclose the flare in tissue paper with a 2-inch paper tail. Twist the end of the paper and place the flare inside a resealable plastic bag.
Tips
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To add color to your flare, consider incorporating metallic salts such as magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts) for a white hue. Strontium nitrate creates a red color (though it may be somewhat difficult to obtain). Barium produces a pale green flame, as does borax. Copper sulfate also yields a green flame. Potassium permanganate results in a purple flame. Search online for additional color options.
Warnings
- When igniting the flare, keep it well away from your body. Alternatively, place it on the ground and step away.
Essential Materials
Method 1:
- Tube (PVC, cardboard tube, any suitable material)
- Powdered aluminum
- Potassium nitrate (there's a perchlorate that works better. Either sodium perchlorate or potassium[citation needed])
- Bonding agent (flammable glue, or nail polish)
Method 2:
- Potassium nitrate
- Powdered sugar
- Mason jar or shake tumbler
- Propane camp stove
- Heavy steel skillet
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Cap
- Wood strike-anywhere matches
- Tissue paper
