In
fireworks, a 'burst charge' is an amount of energetic
pyrotechnic mixture placed in a shell which is ignited when the shell reaches the desired height in order to pass fire to and spread the
stars. Burst charge compositions are frequently coated onto rice hulls or other low-density fillers, which increases the rate of combustion.
Common burst charges
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Black powder
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Flash powder
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H3
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Whistle mix