What specific kind of aluminum powder should be used for flash powder cont?

Question

what specific kind of aluminum powder should be used for flash powder composistion, using KCLO4, im assuming dark aluminum, 600 mesh or finer...but what is better flake or atomized< coated or uncoated,,,what am i looking for ? last time i bought the wrong stuff....i know its kinda touchy subject and any help is greatly appreciated, so if your gonna post dumb *** answers about how horrible i am...dont bother...i am very interested in learning the pyrotechnic hobby so any one with experience that can tell me what im looking for in Al powder.

Answer 1

First check to make sure that what you are doing in legal in your location.

Uncoated powder of 400 to 600 mesh is fine, but it must be stored away from moisture and kept completely dry.  A coating of aluminum oxide will hamper reactivity.

Always work with very small batches and seal the final mixtures as soon as possible after mixing.  Shock as well as sparks and flame can cause detonation.

Pyrotechnics is never just a hobby.  If you are really interested in this topic, I highly suggest that you visit the closest local business that does this kind of manufacturing professionally.