Pyrotechnics

Pyrotechnics is the science and craft of creating such things as fireworks, safety matches, oxygen candles, explosive bolts and other fasteners, parts of automotive airbags, as well as gas-pressure blasting in mining, quarrying, and demolition.

This trade relies upon self-contained and self-sustained exothermic chemical reactions to make heat, light, gas, smoke and/or sound.

Explosions, flashes, smoke, flames, fireworks and other pyrotechnic-driven effects used in the entertainment industry are referred to as proximate pyrotechnics.

German industrial metal band Rammstein are renowned for their incorporation of a large variety of pyrotechnics into performances, which range from flaming costumes to face-mounted flamethrowers.

In modern times a familiar feature of larger fireworks displays are aerial shells, which commonly appear as large spherical bursts of stars in the sky.

The exterior of these shells are commonly made of a hard paper-adhesive layered composite which holds the interior stars arranged around a burst charge, or other pyrotechnic effects.

Modern fireworks displays are commonly executed to a designed program using electrical wiring and ignition linked to an electronic firing system.

Pyrotechnics are also indirectly involved in other consumer products such as powder actuated nail guns, ammunition for firearms, and modern fireplaces.

Pyrotechnic gerbs used in the entertainment industry
Rammstein uses pyrotechnics numerous times in their concerts; their performance of " Feuer frei! " is pictured here.
Pyrotechnics stunt exhibition by Giant Auto Rodéo, Ciney , Belgium
Pyrotechnics are widely used in professional wrestling , including the WWE , to enhance the event. Special concussion mortars are often used to augment these effects, as most of these are low-noise effects.
The 2008-09 Melbourne NYE fireworks, as seen from Alexandra Gardens
Homemade flash pots built without any safety mechanisms