WO2006105636A1 - Non-toxic5 metallic-boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace - Google Patents

Non-toxic5 metallic-boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2006105636A1
WO2006105636A1 PCT/CA2006/000459 CA2006000459W WO2006105636A1 WO 2006105636 A1 WO2006105636 A1 WO 2006105636A1 CA 2006000459 W CA2006000459 W CA 2006000459W WO 2006105636 A1 WO2006105636 A1 WO 2006105636A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
weight
metallic boron
metallic
toxic
boron
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CA2006/000459
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Louise Guindon
Carol Jalbert
Daniel Lepage
Original Assignee
Snc Technologies Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Snc Technologies Inc. filed Critical Snc Technologies Inc.
Priority to US11/910,757 priority Critical patent/US8066833B2/en
Priority to CA2604980A priority patent/CA2604980C/en
Priority to EP06721722A priority patent/EP1871728A4/en
Publication of WO2006105636A1 publication Critical patent/WO2006105636A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06B—EXPLOSIVES OR THERMIC COMPOSITIONS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS EXPLOSIVES
    • C06B23/00—Compositions characterised by non-explosive or non-thermic constituents
    • C06B23/007—Ballistic modifiers, burning rate catalysts, burning rate depressing agents, e.g. for gas generating
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06B—EXPLOSIVES OR THERMIC COMPOSITIONS; MANUFACTURE THEREOF; USE OF SINGLE SUBSTANCES AS EXPLOSIVES
    • C06B33/00—Compositions containing particulate metal, alloy, boron, silicon, selenium or tellurium with at least one oxygen supplying material which is either a metal oxide or a salt, organic or inorganic, capable of yielding a metal oxide
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C06—EXPLOSIVES; MATCHES
    • C06C—DETONATING OR PRIMING DEVICES; FUSES; CHEMICAL LIGHTERS; PYROPHORIC COMPOSITIONS
    • C06C15/00—Pyrophoric compositions; Flints

Definitions

  • This invention relates to non-toxic, metallic-boron-containing, IR tracer compositions and to IR tracer projectiles containing such IR tracer compositions for generating a dim visibility IR trace.
  • Tracer projectiles are now in general use since they provide a reliable means of determining whether projectiles impact on the desired target, or whether adjustments in aim are necessary.
  • One problem with the use of conventional tracer projectiles is that they emit visible light, which thereby makes the source of the tracer projectile discernable to the enemy.
  • An object of a second aspect of the present invention is to provide improved IR tracer projectiles which generate a trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation.
  • toxic heavy metals e.g., barium nor any other toxic elements
  • a broad aspect of the present invention provides a non-toxic, metallic boron- containing, infrared tracer composition
  • a non-toxic, metallic boron- containing, infrared tracer composition comprising: from about 20 to about 30% by weight, or from about 45 to about 60% by weight, of at least one of potassium chlorate or sodium nitrate; from about 5 to about 16% by weight of a metallic fuel which consists of an metallic boron; optionally, from about 15 to about 25% by weight, or from about 40 to about 50% by weight, of a non-metallic fuel which consists of sodium salicylate; from about 5 to about 20% by weight of a retardant which consists of either iron carbonate, or magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate; from about 5 to about 15% by weight of a first binder which consists of calcium resinate; and up to about 7.5% by weight of a synthetic resin binder which consists either of a copolymer of hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride or cellulose
  • the present invention in another aspect, also provides an IR tracer projectile comprising: a hollow cylindrical shell made of a suitable metallic material having a ⁇ x)nical nose; a conventional heavy filler disposed in the hollow conical nose; the non- loxic, metallic-boron-containing IR tracer composition as described above in its generic and specific aspects, compressed immediately against the filler; a (conventional ignition material compressed against the compressed tracer composition; and a metal disc capping the hollow shell.
  • the present invention provides infrared-producing (hereafter "IR” producing) compositions which are capable of producing a consistent IR output when provided in tracer projectiles which are fired from either rifles or machine guns.
  • IR infrared-producing
  • the IR output includes near IR and far IR bands (0.76 to 3.0 ⁇ m). The intensity of the IR radiation depends on the specific wavelength of these bands.
  • IJ Conventional IR radiation-emitting pyrotechnic compositions typically contain a finely-divided mixture of an oxidizer and a fuel (metallic, non-metallic or organic fuel).
  • the oxidizer contains oxygen to sustain combustion and the metallic atoms are responsible for the characteristic color output.
  • a fuel is normally added to sustain combustion of the mixture and to provide heat energy.
  • Finely divided powdered fuel in conventional IR radiation emitting pyrotechnic mixtures is very reactive with an oxidizing agent. Above a certain temperature, namely, the ignition temperature, the oxidizer decomposes to release oxygen, which then reacts quickly with the fuel in an exothermic reaction.
  • An oxidizer and a fuel alone do not make practical pyrotechnics for the purpose of providing IR emission.
  • a flame retardant and a binding agent are also incorporated into such compositions.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention possess unique requirements not generally addressed by the prior art conventional IR tracer compositions. While it is not desired to be limited to any particular theory, it is believed that a hypothesis concerning the formation of purely IR emission without the presence of visible light may be developed based on black body radiation theory. The requirement would then be for the tracer to maximize output at a wavelength in the 1 to 3 ⁇ m range.
  • compositions of the present invention are able to augment near IR emissions when fired. This is accomplished by the addition of IR producing oxidizer and fuel.
  • compositions of aspects of the present invention include an oxidizer, an organic fuel, boron as the sole metallic fuel and a flame retardant.
  • the preferred oxidizer is potassium chlorate, but, alternatively, potassium nitrate may also be used.
  • Potassium perchlorate (KClO 4 ) is the preferred oxidizer because it liberates a large amount of oxygen (46% max) and is stable as a function of time.
  • Sodium chlorate would not be suitable since sodium emits a visible yellow light.
  • Lithium chlorate would not be suitable since lithium emits a visible red light.
  • the preferred organic fuel when used is sodium salicylate (C 7 HsNaO 3 ).
  • This organic fuel has a low melting point and generates a large amount of gases during the combustion, which facilitates the removal of solid residues and soot inside the tracer cavity of the projectile. Without obstruction, the trace can be seen at a longer distances down range.
  • lithium salicylate nor potassium salicylate would be suitable since they provide compositions which are too hygroscopic. Furthermore, these compounds are not conveniently commercially available.
  • the preferred flame retardants are iron carbonate and magnesium carbonate although calcium carbonate would also be useful.
  • the presence of iron carbonate, magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate brings about a better control of the rate of burning and substantially reduces the flash and output of visible light at the point of firing.
  • the carbonates of other transition metals are not suitable.
  • the carbonates of chromium and cobalt contaminate the atmosphere
  • the carbonate of nickel has carcinogenic properties
  • the carbonate of zirconium has excessive luminousity properties.
  • the sole metallic fuel in the composition of aspects of the present invention is boron. It contributes substantially to the exothermic reaction with the oxidizer and to a better combustion of the IR formulation and provides almost exclusively IR radiation and a cool burning IR trace. It provides IR tracer compositions having all the desired characteristics to be described in further detail hereinafter.
  • a binder maintains the other particulate forms of the constituents of the IR tracer composition together.
  • the binder increases the structural integrity of the IR tracer material to prevent any break up of the IR trace in flight. It protects the IR tracer composition from moisture and increases the flowability of the composition.
  • the preferred binder agent is calcium resinate which is added to the composition as a fuel retardant and acts as a waterproofing agent.
  • Other binders e.g. cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) or the fluorocarbon elastomer known by the trade mark VITON A are suitable since they reduce soot formation.
  • the IR tracer compositions were prepared by first dry mixing the powdered ingredients to provide a dry intermediate composition.
  • the binder was dissolved in a suitable aprotic solvent, namely, methyl ethyl ketone.
  • the so-formed binder solution was then incorporated into the dry intermediate composition to provide a wet mixture.
  • the wet mixture so provided was transferred to a suitable mixer in order to obtain a substantially-completely homogeneous mixture of all ingredients.
  • the homogenous mixture so-formed was dried in an oven at about 20-40°C until it was sufficiently dry for sieving.
  • the dry mixture was then sieved to break up agglomerated particles.
  • the IR tracer compositions are thus provided as relatively small particles of random shape.
  • a series of IR tracer compositions was prepared according to the proportion of ingredients as set forth in the following Tables IA and IB.
  • the tracer projectile 10 includes a hollow shell 12 of, preferably, a copper alloy (90% Cu/ 10% Zn), whose nose 14 is filled with a suitable conventional heavy filler 16.
  • the IR tracer composition 18 is compressed immediately against the filler 16.
  • a conventional ignition material 20 is compressed against the tracer composition 18.
  • the tracer projectile 10 is capped by means of a closure disc 22, preferably of brass.
  • the IR trace was found to be visible from the firing position and could not be seen with the naked eye by an observer placed at an angle with respect to the trajectory of the IR tracer projectile.
  • the calorific output of the IR tracer composition measured with a calorimeter was about 500 cal/g, which is about one third less than the calorific output generated by conventional tracer compositions, (500 cal/g compared to 1200 cal/g for conventional tracer compositions).
  • the IR trace can, thus, be designated as a cool IR trace.
  • the IR intensity of the IR emission as measured with a spectrophotometer equipped with IR filters at a wavelength of 760 nanometers was found to be about 1 to 4 watts/steradian and at a wavelength of 3,000 nanometers was found to be about 1.7 to 2.1 watts/steradian.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention was found to have an IR luminosity as measured with a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 760 nanometers of about 1 to 2 watts/steradian and an IR luminosity as measured with a spectrophotometer at a wavelength 3000 nanometers of about 1 to 4 watts/steradian.
  • the IR tracer can be seen up to 1000m compared to up to about 600m for 5.56mm conventional tracer projectile.
  • the IR projectiles of an aspect of the present invention containing the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention have been found to increase the length of trace along the firing line by up to about 120%.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present i nvention produce relatively low burn rate materials so that the IR trace can be seen from the firing point to a longer distance down range.
  • the burn rate is adjustable for 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition to meet or exceed NATO and specific user requirements.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention are also applicable to short/limited range training ammunition (5.56mm, 7.62mm).
  • particular burn rates can be adjusted, the ratio of IR radiation to visible light can be optimized (i.e., substantially no visible light), and the general physical and chemical properties can be carefully selected.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention do not degradade with time, when properly stored at a temperature varying between 5°C and 2O 0 C, with a relative humidity which ranged between 50% and 70%.
  • the calorific heat of an IR tracer projectile containing IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention at the beginning of the storage period was about 500 cal/g and remained constant over a minimum storage period of 6 months.
  • IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention do not contain any toxic elements.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention may easily be industrialized.
  • the present invention provides IR tracer compositions for small caliber ammunition.
  • the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention are non-toxic and when provided in an IR tracer projectile and fired, produced an IR Irace having a lower calorific output than conventional compositions.
  • the IR trace is not visible by the naked eye, i.e., it is a dim trace.
  • the rate of burning is selectively controllable so that the IR tracer can be seen at longer distance from the firing position than the IR trace provided by conventional IR tracer compositions.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Metallurgy (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Compositions Of Macromolecular Compounds (AREA)

Abstract

A novel non-toxic IR tracer composition is provided herein which, when incorporated into an IR tracer projectile which is then fired, generates a dim visibility IR trace. Such IR tracer composition is a non-toxic, metallic-boron- containing, IR tracer composition comprising: from about 20 to about 30 % by weight, or from about 45 to about 60 % by weight, of at least one of potassium chlorate or sodium nitrate; from about 5 to about 16 % by weight of a metallic fuel which consists of metallic boron; optionally, from about 15 to about 25 % by weight, or from about 40 to about 50 % by weight, of a non-metallic fuel which consists of sodium salicylate; from about 5 to about 20 % by weight of a retardant which consists either of iron carbonate, or magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate; from about 5 to about 15 % by weight of a first binder which consists of calcium resinate; and up to about 7.5 % by weight of a second synthetic resin binder which consists either of a copolymer of hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride or cellulose acetate butyrate, wherein the total percentage of such ingredients add up to 100 %. A novel IR tracer projectile containing such IR tracer composition for generating a dim visibility IR trace is also provided.

Description

NON-TOXIC5 METALLIC-BORON-CONTAINING IR TRACER COMPOSITIONS AND IR TRACER PROJECTILES CONTAINING THE SAME FOR GENERATING A DIM VISIBILITY IR TRACE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] This invention relates to non-toxic, metallic-boron-containing, IR tracer compositions and to IR tracer projectiles containing such IR tracer compositions for generating a dim visibility IR trace.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] The art is replete with patents which are directed to compositions containing metallic boron for various purposes, including, e.g., tracer compositions, incendiary compositions and pyrotechnic compositions. Among such prior art patents are the following:
[003] US Patent No 5,639,984, patented Jun 17, 1997, INFRARED TRACER COMPOSITION and assigned to Thiokol Corporation. Those patented composition included strontium peroxide and barium peroxide in addition to metallic boron. However, such infrared tracer compositions suffered the defect that barium was a toxic element.
|004] US Patent No 5,056,435, patented Oct 15, 1991, INFRARED ILLUMINANT AND PRESSING METHOD, issued to L.L. Jones et al. Such patented compositions contained potassium nitrate as well as metallic boron. Such patented compositions suffered the defect that flares including such composition also generated visible light.
[005] US Patent No 6,635,130, patented Oct 21, 2003, PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION FOR PRODUCING IR-RADIATION, and assigned to Diehl
Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co KG. Those patented compositions included metallic metallic magnesium in addition to other metals, including metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the magnesium also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace. [006] US Patent No 6,485,586, patented Nov 26, 2003, LOWER BURNING RATE REDUCED HAZARD HIGH TEMPERATURE INCENDIARY, and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Such patented compositions included titanium as well as metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the titanium also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[007] US Patent No 6,409 854, patented Jun 25, 2002, LOW BURNING RATE, REDUCED HAZARD, HIGH TEMPERATURE INCENDIARY, and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Such patented compositions included titanium as well as boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the titanium also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[008] US Patent No 6,402,864, patented Jun 11 , 2002, LOW SLAG REDUCED HAZARD HIGH TEMPERATURE INCENDIARY, and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Such patented compositions included titanium as well as boron.
However, those compositions suffered the defects that the titanium also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[009] US Patent No 4,978,400, patented Dec 18, 1990 SYNERGISTIC COMPOSITE PYROTECHNIC MATERIAL, and assigned to General Sciences, Inc. Those patented compositions included a pyrotechnic metal which was capable of exothermically reacting with metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the pyrotechnic metal also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[0010] US Patent No 4,915,756, patented Apr 10, 1990, PYROTECHNIC DELAY (HHARGE, and assigned to Aktiebolaget Bofors. Those patented compositions included titanium as well as metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the titanium also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[0011] US Patent No 4,406,228, patented Sep 27, 1983, DEVICE FOR BURNING PYROTECHNIC MIXTURES IN A VERY LOW PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT, and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Those patented compositions included a metal fuel in addition to metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the metal fuel also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[0012] US Patent No 3,695,951, patented Oct 3, 1972 PYROTECHNIC
COMPOSITION, and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Those patented composition included 50% metallic aluminum as well as metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that the metallic aluminum also generated visible light and that they did not produce a cool IR trace.
[0013] US Patent No 3,480,489, patented Nov 25, 1969, PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION, and assigned to Explosive Technology, Inc. Those patented compositions included anhydrous calcium chromate as well as amorphous metallic boron. However such composition suffered the defect that the presence of a chromate rendered the composition toxic.
|[0014] US Patent No 4,204,895, patented May 27, 1980, GREEN FLARE COMPOSITIONS and assigned to the US Secretary of the Navy. Those patented compositions included magnesium and barium nitrates as well as metallic boron. Such patented compositions suffered the defect that they were toxic due to the presence of barium.
|0015] US Patent No 3,475,237, patented Oct 28, 1969, BORON FUEL-SALT SMOKE-PRODUCING COMPOSITIONS, and assigned to The Dow Chemical Company. Those patented compositions included organic or inorganic oxidizers as well as metallic boron. However, those compositions suffered the defects that they did not produce an IR trace of dim visibility and also that they contained toxic ingredients. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AIMS OF THE INVENTION
[0016] Tracer projectiles are now in general use since they provide a reliable means of determining whether projectiles impact on the desired target, or whether adjustments in aim are necessary. One problem with the use of conventional tracer projectiles is that they emit visible light, which thereby makes the source of the tracer projectile discernable to the enemy.
[0017] It would thus be desirable to suppress visible emissions, whereby camouflage is optimized and an enemy cannot visually locate the source of the tracer projectile or the line of fire in order to direct a counter-attack toward that location.
[0018] Accordingly it is an object of a first aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer projectiles in which visible emissions are suppressed, whereby camouflage is optimized and an enemy cannot visually locate the source of the tracer projectile or the line of fire in order to direct a counter-attack toward that location.
[0019] An object of a second aspect of the present invention is to provide improved IR tracer projectiles which generate a trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation.
|0020] It is an object of a third aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer projectiles which generate a trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation, and which has an appropriate burning rate so that it can be observed by the users at a longer distance down range.
[0021] It is an object of a fourth aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer projectiles which generate a trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation, and which has a lower energetic output to minimize the risk of fire propagation in bushes and wooded areas where the projectile lands.
[0022] It is an object of a fifth aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer projectiles which generate a trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation, and which has a controlled IR emission at any particular point to avoid very high intensity visible light emissions which could temporarily blind an observer using an infrared detection system.
[0023] It is an object of a sixth aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer compositions which have a uniform granularity to facilitate the controlled production of the IR tracer projectiles which generate an IR trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation.
[0024] It is an object of a seventh aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer compositions which do not significantly degrade with time under extreme environmental conditions when stored at about 5 to 200C, and thus which provides IR tracer projectiles which generate an IR trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation.
[0025] It is an object of an eighth aspect of the present invention to provide improved IR tracer compositions which do not contain toxic heavy metals, e.g., barium nor any other toxic elements, and which is combined with a non-toxic igniter composition, to provide environmentally-friendly IR tracer compositions which are non-toxic, to provide IR tracer projectiles which generate an IR trace which is substantially- i-Ompletely IR radiation.
|0026] It is an object of a ninth aspect of the present invention to provide improved ] R tracer compositions which are formulated using a selected solvent for mixing the ingredients in order to facilitate the manufacturing process by providing the IR tracer composition with uniform granularity and improved flowability, so that the IR tracer charge weight compressed into IR tracer projectiles which generate an IR trace which is substantially-completely IR radiation could be better controlled.
STATEMENTS OF INVENTION [0027] A broad aspect of the present invention provides a non-toxic, metallic boron- containing, infrared tracer composition comprising: from about 20 to about 30% by weight, or from about 45 to about 60% by weight, of at least one of potassium chlorate or sodium nitrate; from about 5 to about 16% by weight of a metallic fuel which consists of an metallic boron; optionally, from about 15 to about 25% by weight, or from about 40 to about 50% by weight, of a non-metallic fuel which consists of sodium salicylate; from about 5 to about 20% by weight of a retardant which consists of either iron carbonate, or magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate; from about 5 to about 15% by weight of a first binder which consists of calcium resinate; and up to about 7.5% by weight of a synthetic resin binder which consists either of a copolymer of hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride or cellulose acetate butyrate, wherein the total percentage of such ingredients add up to 100%.
[0028] Other embodiments and aspects of the invention comprise the following metallic boron-containing, IR tracer compositions:
[0029] From about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of magnesium carbonate; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0030] About 10% by weight of metallic boron; about 25% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; about 45% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
|0031] From about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0032] About 10% by weight of metallic boron; about 25% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 45% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%; [0033] From about 10 to about 14% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 42 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0034] About 12% by weight of metallic boron; about 20% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 48% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0035] From about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 29% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 45 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
|[0036] About 6% by weight of metallic boron; about 24% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
10037] From about 4 to about 8% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 48% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0038] About 6% by weight of metallic boron; about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 44% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%; [0039] From about 10 to about 14% by weight of metallic boron; from about 24 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0040] About 12% by weight of metallic boron; about 28 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 40% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0041] From about 12 to about 16% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 45% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0042] About 16% by weight of metallic boron; about 24% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 40% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
|0043] From about 9 to about 13% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 45 to about 49% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0044] About 11% by weight of metallic boron; about 22 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 47% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%; [0045] From about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0046] About 10% by weight of metallic boron; about 45 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; about 25% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%;
[0047] From about 5 to about 8% by weight of metallic boron; from about 55 to about 60% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 5 to about 7% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 20 to about 22% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%; and
[0048] About 5% by weight of metallic boron; about 60% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 5% by weight of iron carbonate; about 20% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of the ingredients add up to 100%.
[0049] The present invention, in another aspect, also provides an IR tracer projectile comprising: a hollow cylindrical shell made of a suitable metallic material having a <x)nical nose; a conventional heavy filler disposed in the hollow conical nose; the non- loxic, metallic-boron-containing IR tracer composition as described above in its generic and specific aspects, compressed immediately against the filler; a (conventional ignition material compressed against the compressed tracer composition; and a metal disc capping the hollow shell.
GENERALIZED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0050] The present invention provides infrared-producing (hereafter "IR" producing) compositions which are capable of producing a consistent IR output when provided in tracer projectiles which are fired from either rifles or machine guns. The IR output includes near IR and far IR bands (0.76 to 3.0 μm). The intensity of the IR radiation depends on the specific wavelength of these bands.
[005 IJ Conventional IR radiation-emitting pyrotechnic compositions typically contain a finely-divided mixture of an oxidizer and a fuel (metallic, non-metallic or organic fuel). The oxidizer contains oxygen to sustain combustion and the metallic atoms are responsible for the characteristic color output. To sustain combustion of the mixture and to provide heat energy, a fuel is normally added.
[0052] Finely divided powdered fuel in conventional IR radiation emitting pyrotechnic mixtures is very reactive with an oxidizing agent. Above a certain temperature, namely, the ignition temperature, the oxidizer decomposes to release oxygen, which then reacts quickly with the fuel in an exothermic reaction. An oxidizer and a fuel alone, however, do not make practical pyrotechnics for the purpose of providing IR emission. A flame retardant and a binding agent are also incorporated into such compositions.
[0053] The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention possess unique requirements not generally addressed by the prior art conventional IR tracer compositions. While it is not desired to be limited to any particular theory, it is believed that a hypothesis concerning the formation of purely IR emission without the presence of visible light may be developed based on black body radiation theory. The requirement would then be for the tracer to maximize output at a wavelength in the 1 to 3 μm range.
|0054] The desired IR range is significantly below the flame temperature of present conventional tracer and flame formulations. This knowledge, coupled with the understanding that visible light output is normally the smallest proportion of energy radiation during combustion, leads to the conclusion that an effective IR tracer according to aspects of the present invention is based on a relatively cool burning IR tracer composition.
[0055] Various chemical compositions were investigated to maximize the IR intensity, to maximize the duration of the IR trace for each type of small caliber projectiles and to provide a relatively cool burning IR tracer composition. The IR tracer compositions to be described hereinafter burn cleanly with not too much heat generated and emit relatively-small, almost negligible, quantities of visible light in proportion to the IR radiation emitted.
[0056] The basic components of the compositions of the present invention are able to augment near IR emissions when fired. This is accomplished by the addition of IR producing oxidizer and fuel. Thus, the compositions of aspects of the present invention include an oxidizer, an organic fuel, boron as the sole metallic fuel and a flame retardant.
[0057] The preferred oxidizer is potassium chlorate, but, alternatively, potassium nitrate may also be used. Potassium perchlorate (KClO4) is the preferred oxidizer because it liberates a large amount of oxygen (46% max) and is stable as a function of time. Sodium chlorate would not be suitable since sodium emits a visible yellow light. Lithium chlorate would not be suitable since lithium emits a visible red light.
[0058] The preferred organic fuel when used is sodium salicylate (C7HsNaO3). This organic fuel has a low melting point and generates a large amount of gases during the combustion, which facilitates the removal of solid residues and soot inside the tracer cavity of the projectile. Without obstruction, the trace can be seen at a longer distances down range. Neither lithium salicylate nor potassium salicylate would be suitable since they provide compositions which are too hygroscopic. Furthermore, these compounds are not conveniently commercially available.
10059] The preferred flame retardants are iron carbonate and magnesium carbonate although calcium carbonate would also be useful. The presence of iron carbonate, magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate brings about a better control of the rate of burning and substantially reduces the flash and output of visible light at the point of firing. The carbonates of other transition metals are not suitable. For example, the carbonates of chromium and cobalt contaminate the atmosphere, the carbonate of nickel has carcinogenic properties and the carbonate of zirconium has excessive luminousity properties. [0060] The sole metallic fuel in the composition of aspects of the present invention is boron. It contributes substantially to the exothermic reaction with the oxidizer and to a better combustion of the IR formulation and provides almost exclusively IR radiation and a cool burning IR trace. It provides IR tracer compositions having all the desired characteristics to be described in further detail hereinafter.
[0061] A binder maintains the other particulate forms of the constituents of the IR tracer composition together. The binder increases the structural integrity of the IR tracer material to prevent any break up of the IR trace in flight. It protects the IR tracer composition from moisture and increases the flowability of the composition. The preferred binder agent is calcium resinate which is added to the composition as a fuel retardant and acts as a waterproofing agent. Other binders, e.g. cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB) or the fluorocarbon elastomer known by the trade mark VITON A are suitable since they reduce soot formation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0062] Embodiments of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference also to the attached Figure, which is a one-half longitudinal cross-section of a tracer projectile according to one embodiment of the present invention.
EXAMPLES
PREPARATION OF COMPOSITIONS
[0063] The IR tracer compositions were prepared by first dry mixing the powdered ingredients to provide a dry intermediate composition. The binder was dissolved in a suitable aprotic solvent, namely, methyl ethyl ketone. The so-formed binder solution was then incorporated into the dry intermediate composition to provide a wet mixture. The wet mixture so provided was transferred to a suitable mixer in order to obtain a substantially-completely homogeneous mixture of all ingredients. The homogenous mixture so-formed was dried in an oven at about 20-40°C until it was sufficiently dry for sieving. The dry mixture was then sieved to break up agglomerated particles. The IR tracer compositions are thus provided as relatively small particles of random shape. [0064] A series of IR tracer compositions was prepared according to the proportion of ingredients as set forth in the following Tables IA and IB.
TABLE IA
Figure imgf000014_0001
TABLE IB
Figure imgf000014_0002
PREPARATION OF TEST PROJECTILES [0065] Each of the above IR tracer compositions was compressed into a projectile body of the desired caliber. For the tests which are to be described below, the caliber was 5.56/7.62 mm, i.e., for a rifle. Thus, as seen in the drawing, the tracer projectile 10 includes a hollow shell 12 of, preferably, a copper alloy (90% Cu/ 10% Zn), whose nose 14 is filled with a suitable conventional heavy filler 16. The IR tracer composition 18 is compressed immediately against the filler 16. A conventional ignition material 20 is compressed against the tracer composition 18. The tracer projectile 10 is capped by means of a closure disc 22, preferably of brass.
TEST PROCEDURES [0066] For these series of tests, each of which the IR tracer compositions was inserted into 5.56mm tracer projectiles and fired. When the IR tracer projectile was fired, the IR tracer composition inside the projectile body was ignited by hot gases emitted by a propellant and an IR trace was produced.
[0067] Several important criteria for the IR trace, namely its stablility, its intensity, whether any visible light was detected and if a spark occurred at the firing point, were evaluated as follows:
[0068] Three observers were stationed, one each, at the point of firing, at 250m down range and at 400m down range. These observers noted each of the above criteria.
[0069] The visibility with night vision goggles was determined by the same observers at the same three positions.
10070] The distinctness of the trace was noted at a barrier located 1000m down range. NATO criteria is distinctness of the IR trace at 600m down range.
|0071] The visibility with the naked eye of the tracer projectile was determined at the firing position along the trajectory path and perpendicular to the trajectory path at 200m down range and at 400m down range from the firing position.
[0072] The calorific output of the tracer projectile was measured with a calorimeter. [0073] The results are summarized as follows:
[0074] The IR trace was found to be visible from the firing position and could not be seen with the naked eye by an observer placed at an angle with respect to the trajectory of the IR tracer projectile.
[0075] The calorific output of the IR tracer composition measured with a calorimeter was about 500 cal/g, which is about one third less than the calorific output generated by conventional tracer compositions, (500 cal/g compared to 1200 cal/g for conventional tracer compositions). The IR trace can, thus, be designated as a cool IR trace.
[0076] The IR intensity of the IR emission as measured with a spectrophotometer equipped with IR filters at a wavelength of 760 nanometers was found to be about 1 to 4 watts/steradian and at a wavelength of 3,000 nanometers was found to be about 1.7 to 2.1 watts/steradian. The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention was found to have an IR luminosity as measured with a spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 760 nanometers of about 1 to 2 watts/steradian and an IR luminosity as measured with a spectrophotometer at a wavelength 3000 nanometers of about 1 to 4 watts/steradian.
|0077] For 5.56mm tracer projectiles, the IR tracer can be seen up to 1000m compared to up to about 600m for 5.56mm conventional tracer projectile.
[0078] The IR projectiles of an aspect of the present invention containing the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention have been found to increase the length of trace along the firing line by up to about 120%.
[0079] It has been found that the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present i nvention produce relatively low burn rate materials so that the IR trace can be seen from the firing point to a longer distance down range. The burn rate is adjustable for 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition to meet or exceed NATO and specific user requirements. The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention are also applicable to short/limited range training ammunition (5.56mm, 7.62mm). Thus, particular burn rates can be adjusted, the ratio of IR radiation to visible light can be optimized (i.e., substantially no visible light), and the general physical and chemical properties can be carefully selected.
[0080] The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention do not degradade with time, when properly stored at a temperature varying between 5°C and 2O0C, with a relative humidity which ranged between 50% and 70%. For example, the calorific heat of an IR tracer projectile containing IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention at the beginning of the storage period was about 500 cal/g and remained constant over a minimum storage period of 6 months.
[0081] The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention do not contain any toxic elements.
[0082] The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention may easily be industrialized.
10083] Not all boron-containing compositions satisfy the utility requirements which are met by the IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention. Thus, compositions having the ingredients/proportions set forth in the following Tables 2A and 2B below have been found not to be useful when subjected to the above tests.
TABLE 2A
Figure imgf000017_0001
Figure imgf000018_0001
SUMMARY
[0084] In summary, the present invention provides IR tracer compositions for small caliber ammunition. The IR tracer compositions of aspects of the present invention are non-toxic and when provided in an IR tracer projectile and fired, produced an IR Irace having a lower calorific output than conventional compositions. The IR trace is not visible by the naked eye, i.e., it is a dim trace. The rate of burning is selectively controllable so that the IR tracer can be seen at longer distance from the firing position than the IR trace provided by conventional IR tracer compositions.
|0085] The above-described embodiments of aspects of the invention are intended to be examples of the present invention. Alterations, modifications and variations may be effected to the particular embodiments by those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1) A non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition comprising: from about 20 to about 30% by weight, or from about 45 to about 60% by weight of at least one of potassium chlorate and sodium nitrate; from about 5 to about 16% by weight of a metallic fuel which consists of a metallic boron; optionally, from about 15 to about 25% by weight, or from about 40 to about 50% by weight, of a non-metallic fuel which consists of sodium salicylate; from about 5 to about 20% by weight of a retardant which is selected from the group consisting of iron carbonate and magnesium carbonate or calcium carbonate; from about 5 to about 15% by weight of a first binder which consists of calcium resinate; and optionally up to about 7.5% by weight of a synthetic resin binder which is selected from the group consisting of a copolymer of hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride, and cellulose acetate butyrate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
2) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of magnesium carbonate; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
3) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 2, comprising: about 10 % by weight of metallic boron; about 25% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; about 45 % by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
4) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
5) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 4, comprising: about 10% by weight of metallic boron; about 25 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 45% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
6) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 10 to about 14% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 42 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
7) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 6, comprising: about 12% by weight of metallic boron; about 20 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 48% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
8) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 29% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 45 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
9) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 8, comprising: about 6% by weight of metallic boron; about 24 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
10) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1 , comprising: from about 4 to about 8% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 48% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
11) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 10, comprising: about 6% by weight of metallic boron; about 30 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 44% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
12) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1 , comprising: from about 10 to about 14% by weight of metallic boron; from about 24 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
13) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 12, comprising: about 12% by weight of metallic boron; about 28 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 40% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
14) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 12 to about 16% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 40 to about 45% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
15) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 14, comprising: about 16% by weight of metallic boron; about 24% by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 40% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
16) The non- toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1 , comprising: from about 9 to about 13% by weight of metallic boron; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 12% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 45 to about 49% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
17) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 16, comprising: about 11% by weight of metallic boron; about 22 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of iron carbonate; about 47% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
18) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1, comprising: from about 8 to about 12% by weight of metallic boron; from about 40 to about 50% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 8 to about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; from about 20 to about 30% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
19) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 18, comprising: about 10% by weight of metallic boron; about 45 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 10% by weight of magnesium carbonate; about 25% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
20) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 1 , comprising: from about 5 to about 8% by weight of metallic boron; from about 55 to about 60% by weight of potassium chlorate; from about 5 to about 7% by weight of iron carbonate; from about 20 to about 22% by weight of sodium salicylate; and from about 8 to about 12% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
21) The non-toxic, metallic boron-containing, infrared tracer composition as claimed in claim 20, comprising: about 5% by weight of metallic boron; about 60 % by weight of potassium chlorate; about 5% by weight of iron carbonate; about 20% by weight of sodium salicylate; and about 10% by weight of calcium resinate; wherein the total percentage of said ingredients add up to 100%.
22) An IR tracer projectile comprising: a hollow cylindrical shell made of a suitable metallic material and having a conical nose; a conventional heavy filler disposed in said hollow conical nose; the non-toxic, metallic boron-containing IR tracer composition as claimed in claim 1 compressed immediately against said filler; a conventional ignition material compressed against said compressed IR tracer composition; and a metal disc capping said hollow shell.
PCT/CA2006/000459 2005-04-05 2006-03-28 Non-toxic5 metallic-boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace WO2006105636A1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/910,757 US8066833B2 (en) 2005-04-05 2006-03-28 Non-toxic boron-containing IR tracer compositions and IR tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility IR trace
CA2604980A CA2604980C (en) 2005-04-05 2006-03-28 Non-toxic boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace
EP06721722A EP1871728A4 (en) 2005-04-05 2006-03-28 Non-toxic5 metallic-boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US11/098,413 US20060231179A1 (en) 2005-04-05 2005-04-05 Non-toxic, metallic-boron-containing, IR tracer compositions and IR tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility IR trace
US11/098,413 2005-04-05

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2006105636A1 true WO2006105636A1 (en) 2006-10-12

Family

ID=37073044

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/CA2006/000459 WO2006105636A1 (en) 2005-04-05 2006-03-28 Non-toxic5 metallic-boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US20060231179A1 (en)
EP (1) EP1871728A4 (en)
CA (1) CA2604980C (en)
WO (1) WO2006105636A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CZ304867B6 (en) * 2010-05-13 2014-12-17 Sellier & Bellot A. S. IR radiation-emitting tracer mixtures

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2464944B1 (en) * 2009-08-11 2017-12-13 Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH Projectile with a multi-spectral marking plume

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DD301054A7 (en) * 1983-10-11 1992-10-01 Paulmann MIXTURE FOR GENERATING TONGUE BELTS
DE19643468A1 (en) * 1996-10-22 1998-04-23 Temic Bayern Chem Airbag Gmbh Gas-generating, azide-free solid mixture
CA2302485A1 (en) * 1997-09-09 1999-03-18 Primex Technologies, Inc. Infrared tracer for ammunition
FR2861389A1 (en) * 2003-10-22 2005-04-29 Davey Bickford Pyrotechnic composition for use in an electric initiator, especially for automobile airbags, comprises zirconium, boron, oxidant and binder.

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2988438A (en) * 1957-04-04 1961-06-13 Olin Mathieson Combustible compositions
US3677842A (en) * 1970-03-10 1972-07-18 Us Army Low light level tracer mix
US4128443A (en) * 1975-07-24 1978-12-05 Pawlak Daniel E Deflagrating propellant compositions
US4597810A (en) * 1985-06-20 1986-07-01 Trickel Neal E Tracer unit for ammunition
US5056435A (en) * 1989-11-29 1991-10-15 Jones Leon L Infrared illuminant and pressing method
DE69330887T2 (en) * 1992-07-15 2002-03-28 Cordant Technologies Inc., Ogden COMPRESSIBLE INFRARED LIGHTING COMPOSITIONS
GB2274840B (en) * 1993-02-05 1997-04-09 Standard Fireworks Ltd Composition and device incorporating it
WO1996029564A2 (en) * 1995-03-14 1996-09-26 Thiokol Corporation Infrared tracer compositions
AU2001228616B2 (en) * 2000-12-13 2005-04-28 The Secretary Of State For Defence Infra-red emitting decoy flare

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DD301054A7 (en) * 1983-10-11 1992-10-01 Paulmann MIXTURE FOR GENERATING TONGUE BELTS
DE19643468A1 (en) * 1996-10-22 1998-04-23 Temic Bayern Chem Airbag Gmbh Gas-generating, azide-free solid mixture
CA2302485A1 (en) * 1997-09-09 1999-03-18 Primex Technologies, Inc. Infrared tracer for ammunition
FR2861389A1 (en) * 2003-10-22 2005-04-29 Davey Bickford Pyrotechnic composition for use in an electric initiator, especially for automobile airbags, comprises zirconium, boron, oxidant and binder.

Non-Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
MOCELLA J. ET AL.: "Burn rates of fuel/oxidizer pyrotechnic compositions", ABSTRACTS OF PAPERS, 221ST ACS NATIONAL MEETING, 1 April 2001 (2001-04-01) - 5 April 2001 (2001-04-05), XP008121865 *
RAO R. ET AL.: "A combustion study of metal powders in contact with sodium nitrate", COMBUSTION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 1995, pages 110/111 + 185 - 195, XP008121867 *
See also references of EP1871728A4 *

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CZ304867B6 (en) * 2010-05-13 2014-12-17 Sellier & Bellot A. S. IR radiation-emitting tracer mixtures

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1871728A4 (en) 2012-10-17
US20060231179A1 (en) 2006-10-19
CA2604980A1 (en) 2006-10-12
CA2604980C (en) 2014-10-21
EP1871728A1 (en) 2008-01-02

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US8128766B2 (en) Bismuth oxide primer composition
US5639984A (en) Infrared tracer compositions
CA2402415C (en) Projectile for the destruction of large explosive targets
US4237787A (en) Incendiary projectile
US8518196B2 (en) Missile having a pyrotechnic charge
Koch Special materials in pyrotechnics: V. Military applications of phosphorus and its compounds
ES2310419T3 (en) NON-TOXIC PRIMERS FOR SMALL CALIBER AMMUNITION.
EP2468700B1 (en) Pyrotechnic decoy material for infra-red decoys
US4302259A (en) MgH2 and Sr(NO3)2 pyrotechnic composition
US3972291A (en) Extended range tracer folded cup
Sabatini Advances toward the development of “Green” pyrotechnics
CA2604980C (en) Non-toxic boron-containing ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility ir trace
US8066833B2 (en) Non-toxic boron-containing IR tracer compositions and IR tracer projectiles containing the same for generating a dim visibility IR trace
US9702678B1 (en) Armor piercing incendiary projectile
JP2001515838A (en) Infrared tracer for ammunition
CA2604977C (en) Non-toxic heavy-metal-free zinc peroxide-containing, ir tracer compositions and ir tracer projectiles containing same for generating a dim visibility ir trace
US7985311B2 (en) Non-toxic heavy-metal free-zinc peroxide-containing IR tracer compositions and IR tracer projectiles containing same for generating a dim visibility IR trace
CA1175658A (en) Incendiary composition containing a metallic fuel formed of the group ivb of the periodic table of the elements
US9409830B1 (en) Non-toxic primer mix
KR100917149B1 (en) Tracer composition of high performance for both naked eye and thermal imaging system
CA2972106C (en) Tungsten oxide primer compositions
US2823105A (en) Smoke tracer composition
DE102010053812A1 (en) Pyrotechnic mock target active mass useful for infrared mock target, comprises a first particle comprising a first fuel, a second particle comprising the first or a second fuel, an oxidant for the first fuel and a binder
Glück Development and characterization of environmentally benign light and smoke-producing pyrotechnical formulations
Ward MgH2 and Sr (NO3) 2 pyrotechnic composition

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
DPE2 Request for preliminary examination filed before expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed from 20040101)
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2604980

Country of ref document: CA

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Ref document number: DE

REEP Request for entry into the european phase

Ref document number: 2006721722

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2006721722

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: RU

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Ref document number: RU

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 2006721722

Country of ref document: EP

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 11910757

Country of ref document: US