Gunpowders

Gunpowders is a general term for propellants used to launch projectiles or produce pyrotechnic effects. Historically, the term most often refers to black powder and smokeless powders, with modern propellants comprising a range of nitrocellulose-based formulations and composite mixtures used in artillery and rocketry.

Black powder, the earliest commercially manufactured propellant, is a coarse mixture of an oxidizer, a carbonaceous fuel, and sulfur. It burns relatively slowly, generates a large amount of gas and smoke, and is sensitive to moisture and friction. Although largely replaced by smokeless powders in firearms, it remains in use for historical arms, some sporting applications, and pyrotechnics.

Smokeless powders, developed in the late 19th century, are primarily nitrocellulose-based. They burn much cleaner and more efficiently, producing less smoke and higher energy per unit weight. Variants include single-base formulations (nitrocellulose only) and double-base formulations (nitrocellulose plus a secondary energetic liquid such as nitroglycerin). Some specialized propellants incorporate additional energetic components or plasticizers, yielding a broad range of burning characteristics suited to rifles, pistols, artillery, and industrial uses.

Modern propellants also include composite and triple-base formulations used in large artillery, rocket motors, and certain precision applications. These propellants are designed for stability, predictable burn rates, and compatibility with firearms materials and manufacturing processes.

Safety and storage: propellants are hazardous materials requiring responsible handling, controlled storage, and regulatory compliance. They are sensitive to heat, shock, and moisture, and improper storage can pose serious risks.