B21 Nitrocellulose (Gun Cotton)

Description
Gun cotton, prepared by reacting cotton with concentrated nitric and sulfuric acid, is set off with a hot glass rod. The cellulose nitrate, which has three nitro groups per sugar ring, flames brilliantly with a burst of gas.

Equation
nitrocellulose --> r CO₂ + s N₂ + t H₂O

Reference
L. R. Summerlin, C. L. Borgford, and J. B. Ealy,"Chemical Demonstrations A Sourcebook for Teachers",Vol. 2, American Chemical Society, Washington, DC, (1987) p.103.

B. Z. Shakhashiri, "Chemical Demonstrations", Vol. 1, The University of Wisconsin Press, Madison ,Wisconsin, (1983) p.43.