Question

Why should pyrotechnicians worry about the yield of the reactants in a firework? How does the yield affect the firework and the environment?

Answer 1

The colors emitted by fireworks are products of chemical reactions. These products can be harmful to the environment, that's why, in other countries, it is prohibited to use fireworks, unless during New Year or Christmas. For example, blue fireworks from copper release cancerous dioxins, green sparks come from barium which is radioactive,etc.

Answer 2

Answer:

A person in charge of the secure storage, handling, and service of pyrotechnics and pyrotechnic devices is called a pyrotechnician.  Although the term is commonly used in reference to individuals operating pyrotechnics in the entertainment industry, it may include all persons who handle explosives frequently.

Pyrotechnicians need to worry about the yield of the reactants in a firework because:

I)

Actual Yield is always lower than the theoretical yield. When a firework (which is essentially a product which converts chemical energy into light and heat) ignites, the combustion process usually yield lower that energy or reaction than was planned.

This is because some reactions are fundamentally inefficient, followed by side reactions producing additional products.

Others are imperfect by nature (think of the partial reactions of weak acids and bases). So an incomplete reaction equals a failed product. This is not good for business.

II)

Fireworks are recreational explosives. Nevertheless, the have the potential to harm and cause damage if improperly handled. This can result in liabilities and litigations which are totally preventable.

III)

In a short time, fireworks cause significant air pollution, leaving metal particles, toxic substances, dangerous chemicals and hours and days of smoke in the air. Some of the toxins never fully decompose or disintegrate, but then stick around in the atmosphere, damaging anything they come in contact with.

Cheers!