Fireworks have become an integral part of many special occasions and festivals, adding a spectacular display of colors and lights to the celebration. The history of fireworks can be traced back centuries, and today it has become a worldwide industry.
One of the fascinating aspects of fireworks is the array of colors they produce. The different colors are created by burning metal salts, which undergo a chemical reaction known as the "flame reaction."
This reaction causes the metal salt to release energy in the form of light, and the color of the light depends on the type of metal salt used. For instance, copper salts produce blue or green, while strontium salts produce red.
However, despite the mesmerizing display, fireworks can pose some hazards. The main ingredients of fireworks include charcoal powder, sulfur powder, and metal powder, among others.
When these substances undergo a chemical reaction with the oxidant, they burn rapidly and release harmful gases such as SO2, NO, NO2, and metal oxide dust.
This can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and induce respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and tracheitis. Moreover, the smoke from fireworks can also be irritating to the eyes.
To ensure the safety of fireworks, they are classified into eight categories:
Injection: This category includes products that mainly inject flames and sparks when fireworks are set off.
Rotating: This category features products in which the main body of the fireworks rotates by itself when the fireworks are set off.
Ascension: This category includes products that are oriented by the directional device when fireworks are set off.
Smoke: This category includes products that mainly produce smoke when they are set off.
Spitting beads: This category includes products that regularly launch multiple colored beads, colored flowers, and cannons from the same cylinder when fireworks are set off.
Ground fireworks: This category includes products that are placed on the ground when set off, fired from the main body, and explode in the air with effects such as beads, cannons, flute sounds, or floating animals.
Modelling toys: This category includes products whose shell is made into various shapes. They can imitate the created image or action during or after discharge or produce a certain image during or after the discharge of fireworks.
Small fireworks (diameter not greater than 38mm): This category includes products that burst into various flower patterns or other effects after the fireworks projectile is launched into the air from the launch tube.
Fireworks have become an integral part of many cultures, and their use extends beyond just celebrations and festivals. In some countries, fireworks are used to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. In others, they are used as a way of expressing patriotism and national pride.
Fireworks are a fascinating aspect of many celebrations and festivals. The range of colors they produce and the effects they create is impressive. However, it is essential to ensure that fireworks are handled safely to avoid any potential hazards.
The classification of fireworks helps to ensure that they are used appropriately, and precautions are taken to minimize any risk to human health and the environment.