Blackpowder

Blackpowder is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and saltpeter (preferably high-potassium content saltpeter)

Uses

Primary

• Stored chemical energy which can be rapidly converted into kinetic energy

Hazards

• Saltpeter is toxic if taken in large amounts. Do not eat.
• Blackpowder is extremely flammable, and can explode if confined. Keep away from open flames.
• After burning, the smoke from blackpowder contains toxic and irritating chemicals. Do not breathe.

Production

1. Gather 15 units by mass of saltpeter
2. Gather 3 units by mass of charcoal
3. Gather 2 units by mass of sulfur
4. Grind each ingredient, separately, very fine (like clay, rather than sand)
   Use copper or clay instruments to grind, as they do not spark.
5. Mix the three ingredients thoroughly
6. Store the blackpowder in a dry moisture-proof container

Chemistry

• Water (even as moisture) is bad for blackpowder. It separates the particles, dramatically increases the thermal mass, and inhibits flame propagation.
• Sodium nitrate (NaNO₃) is much more hygroscopic than potassium nitrate (KNO₃), so saltpeter with the highest possible potassium content should be used.
• Blackpowder combusts differently depending on water content, temperature, grain size, and many other factors. The chemical equation below is a rough description of the process.

  4 KNO₃ + C₇H₄O + 2 S → 2 K₂S + 4 CO₂ + 3 CO + 2 H₂O + 2 N₂