PATENT DOCUMENT

Abstract:
A concealed amalgamated neutralizer covertly combines neutralizer material comprised of various combinations of inert materials such as calcium carbonate or silicates with common explosive material for the prevention of malicious use of the explosive material in improvised explosive devices. The concealed amalgamated neutralizer device may vary in shape, size, and color and is therefore adaptable to varying methods of containment typified by common pyrotechnic products. The neutralizer material mimics the explosive material of the pyrotechnic products without detection. Upon disassembly of a concealed amalgamated neutralizer device, the neutralizer material is mixed with and neutralizes the explosive material rendering the explosive material useless as a component for an improvised explosive device.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/857,061 filed Sep. 17, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
       [0002]    The present disclosure relates to neutralization of explosive materials contained in explosives and pyrotechnics. In particular, the disclosure relates to devices and methods for rendering pyrotechnics and ammunition inert or less effective. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    The current worldwide political climate has produced many terrorist and anti-establishment factions that are motivated to create explosive devices from commonly available consumer products. For example, roadside or improvised explosive devices known as IEDs have been encountered in Afghanistan and in Iraq by the U.S. military and in Boston by local police. 
         [0004]    A common practice used in constructing an IED involves the acquisition and disassembly of easily acquired consumer grade explosive products such as fireworks or small arms ammunition. The products are disassembled, yielding explosive material, e.g., black powder or other incendiary material. The explosive material is then combined with projectiles such as nails or broken glass and encased in a rigid container such as an aluminum cooking pot. The results are easily concealed and a deadly combination that is both inexpensive and effective. 
         [0005]    Consumer grade explosive products contain various explosive materials. For example, gunpowder is a very common chemical explosive and comes in two basic forms, modern, smokeless gunpowder and traditional, black powder gunpowder. Black powder is a mixture of sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate (saltpeter). The sulfur and charcoal act as fuels, and the saltpeter is an oxidizer. The standard composition for gunpowder is about 75% potassium nitrate, about 15% charcoal, and about 10% sulfur (proportions by weight). The ratios can be altered somewhat depending on the purpose of the powder. For instance, power grades of gunpowder, unsuitable for use in firearms but adequate for blasting rock in quarrying operations, have proportions of about 70% nitrate, about 14% charcoal, and about 16% sulfur. Some blasting powder may be made with cheaper sodium nitrate substituted for potassium nitrate and proportions may be as low as about 40% nitrate, about 30% charcoal, and about 30% sulfur. 
         [0006]    Most pyrotechnic compositions and explosive materials can be neutralized when mixed with an appropriate combination of inert materials, slowing the burn rate of the explosive material to a non-explosive level that effectively neutralizes the explosive material and renders the explosive material useless for an improvised explosive device. 
         [0007]    The prior art addresses the neutralization of explosive devices. However, none of the prior art devices or methods is completely satisfactory in neutralizing explosive materials in consumer products. 
         [0008]    For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,690,287 to Maegerlein, et al. provides a neutralizing assembly for inhibiting operation of an explosive device. The neutralizing assembly will interrupt the function of the explosive device only when the explosive device is misused. The neutralizing assembly includes an interior chamber with a rupturable barrier containing disabling material. The rupturable barrier separates the disabling material from the explosive material. Upon misuse of the device, the rupturable barrier breaks and the disabling material is released from the interior chamber to disable the explosive material. 
         [0009]    U.S. Pat. No. 3,738,276 to Picard, et al. discloses a halocarbon gel for stabilizing an explosive material during transport. In use, flexible bags are prepared which contain the explosive material mixed with a desensitizing substance. The bags are placed in a protective gel. The gel prevents the desensitizing substance from evaporating through the flexible bags. When the transport is complete, the bags are removed from the gel. Once the bags are removed from the gel, the desensitizing substance evaporates, thus “arming” the explosive material. 
         [0010]    U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0124945 to Smylie, et al. discloses a cartridge that is adapted to achieve deactivation of an explosive composition. In Smylie, the explosive composition and the chemical deactivating agent are held in separate chambers of the cartridge separated by a wall. Upon activation, the wall is breached and the deactivating agent and the explosive composition are allowed to mix, thereby rendering the explosive composition inert. 
         [0011]    It is, therefore, an object of this disclosure to provide a design for and method of manufacture of products which include an undetectable neutralizing agent that automatically and effectively neutralizes an explosive material upon disassembly. 
       SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
       [0012]    A concealed amalgamated neutralizer (CAN) is disclosed for the prevention of malicious conversion of consumer fireworks, ammunition, and other pyrotechnic products into dangerous explosive devices, such as an IED. 
         [0013]    In a preferred embodiment, a method of manufacture is provided whereby neutralizer material is undetectably situated adjacent to explosive material. The neutralizer material is chosen from various combinations of inert materials such as calcium carbonate, silica, or other inert materials combined with complimentary inert bonding and pigmentation chemicals. The neutralizer material is chosen and modified to mimic the physical characteristics (grain size, density, color) of the explosive material so that when placed side by side with the explosive material, the two components are practically indistinguishable and inseparable. 
         [0014]    In one embodiment, the neutralizer material may be a combination of pigmented inert granular constituents. In another embodiment, the neutralizer material may be a liquid or viscous slurry in combination with a source binder and capable of drying into a compact solid. 
         [0015]    In another embodiment, a cylindrical design is provided, which positions the explosive material adjacent the neutralizer material along a common central axis. The physical position and/or ratio of the neutralizer material relative to the explosive material can vary to change the extent of the neutralization. 
         [0016]    In one embodiment, a temporary build container is provided in the form of a “tube within a tube.” A dry granular explosive material is introduced into the interstitial space between the tubes but excluded from the inner tube. A dry granular neutralizer material of similar color, density, size and texture as the explosive material is then introduced in the inner tube. The inner tube is then removed, allowing the explosive material to contact, but not mix with, the neutralizer material at a boundary interface. The resulting solid cylindrical shape is then packed and sealed, preserving the respective positions of the two components and the boundary interface. 
         [0017]    In another embodiment, a spherically shaped device is provided. The neutralizer materials and explosive materials may each be hemispherical and placed “side-by-side.” Temporary physical barriers may be used to separate the components, which are removed during manufacture to create a final product. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment of the invention using wet materials, a “layered” product is provided fixed to a substrate. 
         [0019]    In each case, the neutralizer material is placed in direct physical contact with the explosive material. The neutralizer material is physically indiscernible from the explosive material, and so the boundary interface between the two is very difficult or impossible to distinguish. Upon disassembly of the product, the neutralizer material is physically mixed with the explosive material, resulting in a combined material that is inert and useless as an explosive. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0020]    The disclosed embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
           [0021]      FIG. 1A  is a schematic diagram of a portion of a pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0022]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram of a portion of a pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0023]      FIG. 2A  is an isometric view of a tube within a tube build container. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2B  is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment in cylindrical form. 
           [0025]      FIG. 3A  is an isometric view of a cylindrical layered build container. 
           [0026]      FIG. 3B  is an isometric view of a preferred embodiment in layered form. 
           [0027]      FIG. 4A  is a section plan view of spherical side by side build container. 
           [0028]      FIG. 4B  is a section plan view of a preferred embodiment in spherical form. 
           [0029]      FIG. 4C  is a section plan view of a spherical build container with a preferred embodiment in spherical form. 
           [0030]      FIG. 5  is a flow chart of steps required with assembly of a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0031]      FIG. 6  is a flow chart of steps to build a spherical pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0032]      FIG. 7  is a flow chart of steps to build a spherical pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0033]      FIG. 8A  is a section plan view of an alternate embodiment resulting from liquid materials. 
           [0034]      FIG. 8B  is a section plan view of an alternate embodiment resulting from liquid materials as it is being made. 
           [0035]      FIG. 9  is a flow chart of steps required with assembly of a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0036]      FIG. 10  is a section plan view of an article of manufacture including a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0037]      FIG. 11  is a flow chart of steps for assembly of an article of manufacture including a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0038]      FIG. 12  is a section plan view of a Roman candle in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0039]      FIG. 13  is a flow chart of steps to build a Roman candle in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0040]      FIG. 14  is an isometric view of a pyrotechnic assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0041]      FIG. 15  is a flow chart of steps to build a pyrotechnic assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0042]      FIG. 16  is an isometric view of a pyrotechnic assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0043]      FIG. 17  is a flow chart of steps to roll a pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0044]      FIG. 18  is a detail view of a pyrotechnic device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0045]      FIG. 19  is a flow chart of steps to build a device using a shell case in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0046]      FIG. 20  is a cross section view of a pyrotechnic pigeon in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0047]      FIG. 21A  is a flow chart of steps to build a pyrotechnic pigeon in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
           [0048]      FIGS. 21B to 211  are cross section views of a pyrotechnic pigeon as it is being built in accordance with a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0049]    Referring to  FIG. 1A , portion  100  of a pyrotechnic or explosive device is shown that includes concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  to prevent the use of explosive composition  114  in other devices. Portion  100  comprises housing  102 , which acts to enclose and/or support concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  and explosive composition  114 . Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  and explosive composition  114  are positioned with or adjacent to each other. Interface  132  is an indiscernible boundary interface between concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  and explosive composition  114  and is where concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  touches explosive composition  114 . Example pyrotechnic devices that comprise portion  100  include ammunition (such as shotgun shell  1000  of  FIG. 10 ), fireworks (such as Roman candle  1200  of  FIG. 12 ), and other explosive devices (such as a training target comprising the devices of  FIGS. 8A, 8B and 18  and percussion caps). 
         [0050]    Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  is a composition having a color and grain size that is indiscernible from the color and grain size of explosive composition  114 . When mixed sufficiently with explosive composition  114 , explosive power of the resulting mixture is reduced as compared to the explosive power of explosive composition  114  so as to prevent the use of explosive composition  114  outside of housing  102 . Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  comprises non-inert material  106 , inert material  108 , and binding agent  112 . Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  may be formed from a slurry, such as neutralizer slurry  124  of  FIG. 1B . 
         [0051]    In alternative embodiments, concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  is formed without being processed from a neutralizer slurry. As an example, concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  may be formed from a dry powder. 
         [0052]    Materials used as non-inert material  106  include aluminum and may optionally comprise or form a pigment. Non-inert material  106  may include materials similar to fuel  116  of explosive composition  114 . Non-inert material  106  alters the fuel to oxidizer ratio of explosive composition  114  and/or provides different burn characteristics so as to reduce the explosiveness of explosive composition  114  when explosive composition  114  is combined with concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  outside of housing  102 . 
         [0053]    Materials used in inert material  108  include magnesium silicate and chalk and may optionally comprise or form a pigment. Inert material  108  does not burn or explode and acts to reduce the explosiveness of explosive composition  114  when explosive composition  114  is combined with concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  outside of housing  102 . 
         [0054]    Materials used as binding agent  112  of concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  include cellulose and shellac and also include materials similar to materials used as binding agent  122  of explosive composition  114 . Binding agent  112  acts to bind the components of concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  together and prevent the components of concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  from mixing with explosive composition  114  while concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  and explosive composition  114  are contained within the pyrotechnic device comprising portion  100 . 
         [0055]    Referring to  FIG. 1B , a substrate  103  may also be used to support various embodiments where a liquid binder is necessary. Neutralizer slurry  124  and explosive slurry  128  are formed on top of substrate  103 . Interface  133  is an indiscernible boundary interface between neutralizer slurry  124  and explosive slurry  128 . Neutralizer slurry  124  and explosive slurry  128  are positioned with or adjacent to each other and touch each other at interface  133 . 
         [0056]    Neutralizer slurry  124  is used to form concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104 . Neutralizer slurry  124  includes non-inert material  106 , inert material  108 , and binding agent  112 . Neutralizer slurry  124  also includes solvent  126 . Once positioned with respect to substrate  103 , neutralizer slurry  124  is allowed to solidify by withdrawal of solvent  126 , e.g., via vaporization, to form concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  as a solid or to give concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  a more solid-like form. 
         [0057]    Materials used as solvent  126  include methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), cellulose thinners, isopropanol, alcohol, water, hydrogen peroxide, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and liquid nitrogen. Solvent  126  dissolves the other components of neutralizer slurry  124  and allows neutralizer slurry  124  to be processed in a more liquid-like fashion as compared to concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104 . 
         [0058]    Explosive composition  114  is an explosive material, also known as a pyrotechnic composition, comprising one or more fuels  116 , oxidizers  118 , and additives  120 , and binding agents  122 . Fuels  116  and oxidizers  118  interact chemically to release energy, additives  120  add additional properties, and binding agents  122  bind explosive composition  114  together. Explosive composition  114  is formed from explosive slurry  128 . 
         [0059]    In alternative embodiments, explosive composition  114  is formed without being processed from explosive slurry  128 . As an example, explosive composition  114  may be formed from a dry powder. 
         [0060]    Materials used as fuel  116  include: metals, metal hydrides, metal carbides, metalloids, non-metallic inorganics, carbon based compounds, organic chemicals, and organic polymers and resins. Metal fuels include: aluminum, magnesium, magnalium, iron, steel, zirconium, titanium, ferrotitanium, ferrosilicon, manganese, zinc, copper, brass, tungsten, zirconium-nickel alloy. Metal hydride fuels include: titanium(II) hydride, zirconium(II) hydride, aluminum hydride, and decaborane. Metal carbides used as fuels include zirconium carbide. Metalloids used as fuels include: silicon, boron, and antimony. Non-metallic inorganic fuels include: sulfur, red phosphorus, white phosphorus, calcium silicide, antimony trisulfide, arsenic sulfide (realgar), phosphorus trisulfide, calcium phosphide, and potassium thiocyanate. Carbon based fuels include: carbon, charcoal, graphite, carbon black, asphaltum, and wood flour. Organic chemical fuels include: sodium benzoate, sodium salicylate, gallic acid, potassium picrate, terephthalic acid, hexamine, anthracene, naphthalene, lactose, dextrose, sucrose, sorbitol, dextrin, stearin, stearic acid, and hexachloroethane. Organic polymer and resin fuels include: fluoropolymers (such as Teflon and Viton), hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), carboxyl-terminated polybutadiene (CTPB), polybutadiene acrylonitrile (PBAN), polysulfide, polyurethane, polyisobutylene, nitrocellulose, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, shellac, and accroides resin (red gum). 
         [0061]    Materials used as oxidizers  118  include: perchlorates, chlorates, nitrates, permanganates, chromates, oxides and peroxides, sulfates, organic chemicals, and others. Perchlorate oxidizers include: potassium perchlorate, ammonium perchlorate, and nitronium perchlorate. Chlorate oxidizers include: potassium chlorate, barium chlorate, and sodium chlorate. Nitrates include: potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, calcium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, barium nitrate, strontium nitrate, and cesium nitrate. Permanganate oxidizers include: potassium permanganate and ammonium permanganate. Chromate oxidizers include: barium chromate, lead chromate, and potassium dichromate. Oxide and peroxide oxidizers include: barium peroxide, strontium peroxide, lead tetroxide, lead dioxide, bismuth trioxide, iron(II) oxide, iron(III) oxide, manganese(IV) oxide, chromium(III) oxide, and tin(IV) oxide. Sulfate oxidizers include: barium sulfate, calcium sulfate, potassium sulfate, sodium sulfate, and strontium sulfate. Organic oxidizers include: guanidine nitrate, hexanitroethane, cyclotrimethylene trinitramine, and cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine. Other oxidizers include: sulfur, Teflon, and boron. 
         [0062]    Materials used as additives  120  include materials that act as: coolants, flame suppressants, opacifiers, colorants, chlorine donors, catalysts, stabilizers, anticaking agents, plasticizers, curing and crosslinking agents, and bonding agents. Coolants include: diatomaceous earth, alumina, silica, magnesium oxide, carbonates including strontium carbonate, and oximide. Flame suppressants include: potassium nitrate and potassium sulfate. Opacifiers include carbon black and graphite. Colorants include: salts of metals (including barium, strontium, calcium, sodium, and copper), copper metal, and copper acetoarsenite with potassium perchlorate. Chlorine donors include: polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, vinylidene chloride, chlorinated paraffins, chlorinated rubber, hexachloroethane, hexachlorobenzene, and other organochlorides and inorganic chlorides (e.g., ammonium chloride, mercurous chloride), as well as perchlorates and chlorates. Catalysts include: ammonium dichromate, iron(III) oxide, hydrated ferric oxide, manganese dioxide, potassium dichromate, copper chromite, lead salicylate, lead stearate, lead 2-ethylhexoate, copper salicylate, copper stearate, lithium fluoride, n-butyl ferrocene, di-n-butyl ferrocene. Stabilizers include: carbonates (e.g., sodium, calcium, or barium carbonate), alkaline materials, boric acid, organic nitrated amines (such as 2-nitrodiphenylamine), petroleum jelly, castor oil, linseed oil, ethyl centralite, and 2-nitrodiphenylamine. Anticaking agents include: fumed silica, graphite, and magnesium carbonate. Plasticizers: include dioctyl adipate, isodecyl pelargonate, and dioctyl phthalate as well as other energetic materials such as: nitroglycerine, butanetriol trinitrate, dinitrotoluene, trimethylolethane trinitrate, diethylene glycol dinitrate, triethylene glycol dinitrate, bis(2,2-dinitropropyl)formal, bis(2,2-dinitropropyl)acetal, 2,2,2-trinitroethyl 2-nitroxyethyl ether, and others. Curing and crosslinking agents include: paraquinone dioxime, toluene-2, 4-diisocyanate, tris(1-(2-methyl) aziridinyl) phosphine oxide, N,N,O-tri(1,2-epoxy propyl)-4-aminophenol, and isophorone diisocyanate. Bonding agents include tris(1-(2-methyl) azirinidyl) phosphine oxide and triethanolamine. 
         [0063]    Materials used as binding agents  122  include: gums, resins and polymers, such as: acacia gum, red gum, guar gum, copal, cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, nitrocellulose, rice starch, cornstarch, shellac, dextrin, hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), polybutadiene acrylonitrile (PBAN), polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). 
         [0064]    Explosive slurry  128  is used to form explosive composition  114 . Explosive slurry  128  includes fuel  116 , oxidizer  118 , additives  120 , and binding agent  122 . Explosive slurry  128  also includes solvent  130 . Once positioned with respect to housing  102 , explosive slurry  128  is allowed to solidify by withdrawal of solvent  130 , e.g., via vaporization, to form explosive slurry  128  as a solid or to give explosive slurry  128  more solid-like form. 
         [0065]    Materials used as solvent  130  include methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), cellulose thinners, isopropanol, alcohol, water, and hydrogen peroxide. Solvent  130  dissolves the other components of explosive slurry  128  and allows explosive slurry  128  to be processed in a more liquid-like fashion as compared to explosive composition  114 . 
         [0066]    Table 1 below shows typical components of dry granular explosive materials, dry neutralizer materials, coloring agents, and ratios required to neutralize the explosive materials in several preferred embodiments. The ratios indicated are by weight, but similar ratios may also be made by volume. The percentage composition of the explosive materials can vary by as much as plus or minus 15%. The percentage composition of the neutralizer materials can vary by as much as plus or minus 15%. The composition ratios can vary by as much as plus or minus 25%. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Dry Explosive 
                 Dry Neutralizer 
                 Coloring 
                 DEM:DIM 
               
               
                 Materials 
                 Materials 
                 Agents 
                 (by weight) 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 70% potassium 
                 65% magnesium 
                 Aluminum 
                 3:2 
               
               
                 chlorate 
                 silicate 
               
               
                 30% aluminum 
                 30% aluminum 
               
               
                   
                 5% ackroyd resin 
               
               
                 75% potassium nitrate 
                 Silica 
                 Carbon slurry 
                 3:1 
               
               
                 15% charcoal 
               
               
                 10% sulfur 
               
               
                 70% potassium nitrate 
                 Silica 
                 Carbon slurry 
                 3:1 
               
               
                 14% charcoal 
               
               
                 16% sulfur 
               
               
                 40% sodium nitrate 
                 Chalk 
                 Carbon black 
                 3:2 
               
               
                 30% charcoal 
               
               
                 30% sulfur 
               
               
                 75% potassium nitrate 
                 Barium 
                 Lamp black 
                 6:5 
               
               
                 19% carbon 
               
               
                 6% sulfur 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0067]    Table 2 below shows typical components of explosive materials, neutralizer materials, pigmentation, solvents, and ratios. The percentage composition of the explosive materials can vary by as much as plus or minus 15%. The percentage composition of the neutralizer materials can vary by as much as plus or minus 15%. The composition ratios can vary by as much as plus or minus 25%. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Explosive 
                 Neutralizer 
                   
                   
                 EM:IM:Sol 
               
               
                 Materials 
                 Materials 
                 Pigmentation 
                 Solvents 
                 (by weight) 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 75% potassium 
                 Silica 
                 Carbon black 
                 Alcohol 
                 3:1:1 
               
               
                 nitrate 
               
               
                 15% charcoal 
               
               
                 10% sulfur 
               
               
                 70% potassium 
                 Chalk 
                 Lamp black 
                 Water 
                 3:2:2 
               
               
                 nitrate 
               
               
                 14% charcoal 
               
               
                 16% sulfur 
               
               
                 40% sodium 
                 Barium 
                 Aluminum 
                 Isopropanol 
                 6:5:4 
               
               
                 nitrate 
                   
                 pigment 
               
               
                 30% charcoal 
                   
                 (ultramarine) 
               
               
                 30% sulfur 
               
               
                 75% potassium 
                 Saw dust 
                 Vine black 
                 Liquid 
                 11:9:9 
               
               
                 nitrate 
                   
                   
                 nitrogen 
               
               
                 19% carbon 
               
               
                 6% sulfur 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0068]    Tables 3-5 below show typical components of neutralizers, solvents, pigments, and explosive compounds, any of which may be used in pyrotechnic devices in accordance with this disclosure. Table 3 below includes a list of neutralizers and solvents, any of which may be used in pyrotechnic devices. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                 TABLE 3 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 Neutralizers 
                 Solvents 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 Talcum 
                 Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 
               
               
                   
                 Chaulk 
                 Cellulose thinners 
               
               
                   
                 Barrium 
                 Isopropanol 
               
               
                   
                 Manganese 
                 Water 
               
               
                   
                 Aluminum 
                 Alcohol 
               
               
                   
                 Silica 
                 Hydrogen peroxide 
               
               
                   
                 Saw dust 
                 Liquefied petroleum gas 
               
               
                   
                 Calcium carbonate 
                 Liquid nitrogen 
               
               
                   
                 Barite 
               
               
                   
                 Potters clay 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0069]    Table 4 below shows a list of pigments, any of which may be used in pyrotechnic devices. A pigment that is used in portion  100  of pyrotechnic device may form part of non-inert material  106  or part of inert material  108 , depending on the chemical composition of the pigment. When a pigment is used to tint concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104 , a sufficient amount is used to coat and color the granules formed from non-inert material  106  and inert material  108  within concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104 . The amount or proportion of pigment may vary depending on the grain size of the granules formed from non-inert material  106  and inert material  108  within concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104 . The pigment may be introduced to concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  in the form of a dye. Similarly, the granules of the inert materials may be washed with a pigment or dye for a time sufficient to change their color to approximate the color of the granules of the non-inert material. The grainsize of the pigmented inert material can be controlled by sifting with an appropriate wire mesh or other method as known in the art. The mesh size is chosen to approximate the size of the non-inert material. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Pigments 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Aluminum pigments: ultramarine violet, ultramarine 
               
               
                 Antimony pigments: antimony white 
               
               
                 Arsenic pigments: orpiment natural monoclinic arsenic sulfide (As 2 S 3 ) 
               
               
                 Barium pigments: barium sulfate 
               
               
                 Biological pigments: alizarin, alizarin crimson, gamboge, cochineal red, rose madder, 
               
               
                 indigo, Indian yellow, Tyrian purple 
               
               
                 Cadmium pigments: cadmium yellow, cadmium red, cadmium green, cadmium orange, 
               
               
                 cadmium sulfoselenide (CdSe) 
               
               
                 Carbon pigments: carbon black, ivory black (bone char), vine black, lamp black, India ink 
               
               
                 Chromium pigments: chrome green, viridian, chrome yellow, chrome orange 
               
               
                 Clay earth pigments (iron oxides): yellow ochre, raw sienna, burnt sienna, raw umber, burnt 
               
               
                 umber 
               
               
                 Cobalt pigments: cobalt violet, cobalt blue, cerulean blue, aureolin (cobalt yellow) 
               
               
                 Copper pigments: Azurite, Han purple, Han blue, Egyptian blue, Malachite, Paris green, 
               
               
                 Scheele&#39;s Green, Phthalocyanine Blue BN, Phthalocyanine Green G, verdigris, viridian 
               
               
                 Iron pigments: Prussian blue, yellow ochre, iron black 
               
               
                 Iron oxide pigments: sanguine, caput mortuum, oxide red, red ochre, Venetian red, burnt 
               
               
                 sienna 
               
               
                 Lead pigments: lead white, cremnitz white, Naples yellow, red lead 
               
               
                 Manganese pigments: manganese violet 
               
               
                 Mercury pigments: vermilion 
               
               
                 Organic pigments: quinacridone, magenta, phthalo green, phthalo blue, pigment red 170, 
               
               
                 diarylide yellow 
               
               
                 Tin pigments: mosaic gold 
               
               
                 Titanium pigments: titanium yellow, titanium beige, titanium white, titanium black 
               
               
                 Ultramarine pigments: ultramarine, ultramarine green shade 
               
               
                 Zinc pigments: zinc white, zinc ferrite 
               
               
                 India ink 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0070]    Table 5 below shows typical explosive compounds, any of which may be used in pyrotechnic devices in accordance with this disclosure. Table 5 includes the following acronyms (among others): trinitrotoluene (TNT), ammonium nitrate (AN), ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO), triethylenetetramine (TETA), nitromethane (NM), penthrite (PETN), research department explosive (RDX), erythritol tetranitrate (ETN), high-velocity military explosive (HMX), polyurethane (PU), polycaprolactone (PCP), trimethylolethane trinitrate (TMETN), hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), alkyl acrylate copolymer (ACM), dioctyl adipate (DOA), ammonium perchlorate (AP), nitrocellulose (NC), and isopropyl nitrate (IPN). 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 5 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Explosive compounds 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 Aluminum powder (30%) + Potassium chlorate (70%) 
               
               
                 Amatol (50% TNT + 50% AN) 
               
               
                 Amatol (80% TNT + 20% AN) 
               
               
                 Ammonium nitrate (AN + &lt;0.5% H 2 O) 
               
               
                 ANFO (94% AN + 6% fuel oil) 
               
               
                 ANNMAL (66% AN + 25% NM + 5% Al + 3% C + 1% TETA) 
               
               
                 Black powder (75% KNO 3  + 19% C + 6% S) 
               
               
                 Blasting powder 
               
               
                 Chopin&#39;s Composition (10% PETN + 15% RDX + 72% ETN) 
               
               
                 Composition A-5 (98% RDX + 2% stearic acid) 
               
               
                 Composition B (63% RDX + 36% TNT + 1% wax) 
               
               
                 Composition C-3 (78% RDX) 
               
               
                 Composition C-4 (91% RDX) 
               
               
                 DADNE (1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene, FOX-7) 
               
               
                 DDF (4,4′-Dinitro-3,3′-diazenofuroxan) 
               
               
                 Diethylene glycol dinitrate (DEGDN) 
               
               
                 Dinitrobenzene (DNB) 
               
               
                 Erythritol tetranitrate (ETN) 
               
               
                 Ethylene glycol dinitrate (EGDN) 
               
               
                 Flash powder 
               
               
                 Gelatine (92% NG + 7% nitrocellulose) 
               
               
                 Heptanitrocubane (HNC) 
               
               
                 Hexamine dinitrate (HDN) 
               
               
                 Hexanitrobenzene (HNB) 
               
               
                 Hexanitrostilbene (HNS) 
               
               
                 Hexogen (RDX) 
               
               
                 HMTD (hexamine peroxide) 
               
               
                 HNIW (CL-20) 
               
               
                 Hydrazine mononitrate 
               
               
                 Hydromite ® 600 (AN water emulsion) 
               
               
                 MEDINA (Methylene dinitroamine) 
               
               
                 Mixture: 24% nitrobenzene + 76% TNM 
               
               
                 Mixture: 30% nitrobenzene + 70% nitrogen tetroxide 
               
               
                 Nitrocellulose (13.5% N, NC) 
               
               
                 Nitroglycerin (NG) 
               
               
                 Nitroguanidine 
               
               
                 Nitromethane (NM) 
               
               
                 Nitrourea 
               
               
                 Nobel&#39;s Dynamite (75% NG + 23% diatomite) 
               
               
                 Nitrotriazolon (NTO) 
               
               
                 Octanitrocubane (ONC) 
               
               
                 Octogen (HMX grade B) 
               
               
                 Octol (80% HMX + 19% TNT + 1% DNT) 
               
               
                 PBXIH-135 EB (42% HMX, 33% Al, 25% PCP-TMETN&#39;s system) 
               
               
                 PBXN-109 (64% RDX, 20% Al, 16% HTPB&#39;s system) 
               
               
                 PBW-11 (96% HMX, 1% ACM, 3% DOA) 
               
               
                 PBW-126 (22% NTO, 20% RDX, 20% AP, 26% Al, 12% PU&#39;s system) 
               
               
                 Penthrite (PETN) 
               
               
                 Pentolite (56% PETN + 44% TNT) 
               
               
                 Picric acid (TNP) 
               
               
                 Plastics Gel ® (45% PETN + 45% NG + 5% DEGDN + 4% NC) 
               
               
                 RISAL P (50% IPN + 28% RDX + 15% Al + 4% Mg + 1% Zr + 2% NC) 
               
               
                 Semtex 1A (76% PETN + 6% RDX) 
               
               
                 Tanerit Simply ® (93% granulated AN + 6% red P + 1% C) 
               
               
                 acetone peroxide (TATP) 
               
               
                 Tetryl 
               
               
                 Tetrytol (70% tetryl + 30% TNT) 
               
               
                 trinitroazetidine (TNAZ) 
               
               
                 Torpex (aka HBX, 41% RDX + 40% TNT + 18% Al + 1% wax) 
               
               
                 Triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) 
               
               
                 Trinitrobenzene (TNB) 
               
               
                 Trinitrotoluene (TNT) 
               
               
                 Tritonal (80% TNT + 20% aluminium) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0071]    Referring to  FIG. 2A , build container  202  is shown. Build container  202  is a generally hollow cylinder having sidewall  204 , open end  206 , and closed end  208  defining interior space  205 . In one embodiment, number 20 cardboard is used to form the ends and walls. Other structural materials such as mylar or vinyl will suffice. Build container  202  is used in a preferred method of assembling generally cylindrical shaped devices containing various combinations of dry compositions of explosive and neutralizer materials, as will be further described. Inner tube  210  is removably affixed within the interior of build container  202  by means common in the art, such as a suitably releasable adhesive. In the preferred embodiment, inner tube  210  is located co-axially with build container  202 , however inner tube  210  may be positioned anywhere within interior  205 . Although a single inner tube is depicted within build container  202 , it will be understood that a plurality of inner tubes may be installed inside build container  202 . Inner tube  210  has an exterior cylindrical shaped surface  212  and an open end  214  defining interior space  215 . Neutralizer material is loaded into interior space  215 , which is inside of interior space  205 , and the explosive material is loaded into interior space  205  outside of interior space  215 . Those skilled in the art will understand that shapes other than cylindrical may be used for inner tube  210  and/or build container  202  such as elliptical, rectangular, and triangular. It is further understood that the size of inner tube  210  relative to build container  202  can be changed depending on the ratio of neutralizer material to explosive material required to properly render the explosive material useless. Additionally, the overall volume of the assembled device may vary depending on intended use of the device. 
         [0072]    It should be understood that the positions of the explosive and neutralizer materials could be reversed so that explosive material is loaded into interior space  215 , which is inside of interior space  205 , and the neutralizer material is loaded into interior space  205  outside of interior space  215 . Furthermore, the relative dimensions of the build container and the inner tube organize functions of the ratio of explosive and neutralizer materials. 
         [0073]      FIG. 2B  shows an assembled device  222  containing neutralizer material  220  and explosive material  230  separated by a boundary interface  225 . Neutralizer material  220  is comprised of components that match explosive material  230  such that neutralizer material  220  is indiscernible from explosive material  230 . Neutralizer material  220  is chosen to approximate the grain size and color of explosive material  230 . Boundary interface  225  is where explosive material  230  contacts neutralizer material  220  within assembled device  222 . Since neutralizer material  220  is indiscernible from explosive material  230 , boundary interface  225  is not visible. 
         [0074]    Referring to  FIG. 3A , alternate build container  302  is shown. Build container  302  is a generally hollow cylinder having sidewall  304 , open end  306 , and closed end  308  defining interior space  305 . Build container  302  is used for assembling generally disc shaped, layered devices. 
         [0075]      FIG. 3B  shows an assembled device  322  made from build container  302  in which dry manufacture neutralizer material  320  is layered on top of explosive material  330 . In an alternate embodiment, explosive material  330  is layered on top of neutralizer material  320 . Explosive material  330  is separated from neutralizer material  320  by boundary interface  325 . 
         [0076]      FIG. 4A  shows an alternate build container  402 . Build container  402  is comprised of two hollow, semi-spherical halves  404  and  406 . Half  404  defines interior space  408  and half  406  defines interior space  410 . A disk shaped separation barrier  409  may be affixed to either half  404  or  406  to contain the explosive material and neutralizer material during assembly. 
         [0077]      FIG. 4B  shows an assembled device  422  made from build container  402 . Explosive material  430  is separated from neutralizer material  420  by boundary interface  425 . Boundary interface  425  is imperceptible upon visual inspection. 
         [0078]    In an alternate spherical arrangement shown in  FIG. 4C , build container  402  is used to create a spherical shaped device comprised of a spherical core surrounded by a larger sphere. Explosive material  430  is a hollow sphere shape including a spherical shaped core of neutralizer material  420 . It should be understood by those skilled in the art that an arrangement of neutralizer material surrounding explosive material would be equally effective. Imperceptible boundary interface  426  is provided between explosive material  430  and neutralizer material  420 . 
         [0079]    For simplicity in  FIGS. 1-4 , detonators, primers, fuses, igniters, casings, plugs, etc. are not shown as each device may require different combinations of these elements typically found in various consumer fireworks, ammunition, and other pyrotechnic products. Some devices use other sources of ignition such as heat or impact. 
         [0080]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , the steps involved with constructing a device using generally dry materials are shown. At step  502 , an explosive material is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  504  the grain size of the explosive material is identified. If the explosive material contains multiple components each having different grains sizes, each grain size will be identified. At step  506 , the color of the explosive material is identified. At step  508 , a matching neutralizer material with the identified grain size is chosen. The neutralizer material and the level of neutralization desired are chosen according to Table 1 for dry materials or Table 2 for slurries. At step  510 , if the color of the neutralizer material does not match the explosive material, then the neutralizer material is colored using a pigment or dye to match the explosive material. In a different embodiment, a charcoal dye is employed to tint the neutralizer material. At step  512 , the explosive material is introduced into a build container. At step  514 , the neutralizer material is introduced into the build container, and if necessary, the build container is assembled. If necessary, at step  516 , the materials introduced in the build container are compacted. At step  518 , the separation barrier is removed from the build container. At step  520 , any ancillary components required for the device, such as plugs, primers, fuses, detonators, etc., are installed and the assembled device is wrapped in appropriate casing. 
         [0081]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , one or more steps involved with constructing a spherical pyrotechnic device using generally inert materials are shown. At step  602 , an explosive material is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  604 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  606 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  608 , a slurry is prepared from the explosive material and the appropriate solvent or liquid. At step  610 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is chosen. At step  612 , a neutralizer slurry is prepared using the neutralizer material and proper pigmentation and solvent. 
         [0082]    At step  614 , the neutralizer slurry is rolled into a sphere. In a preferred embodiment, the neutralizer slurry is rolled into a sphere through the use of a scoop. In one preferred embodiment, a scoop is used which is part number ZEROLL 1020 available from Centinal Restaurant Products of Indianapolis, Ind. 
         [0083]    At step  616 , the neutralizer slurry is optionally allowed to at least partially solidify so that the sphere of the neutralizer slurry will maintain its geometry during subsequent processing. At step  618 , the explosive slurry is rolled into a sphere such that the volume of the sphere of the neutralizer slurry and the volume of the sphere of the explosive slurry forms a selected ratio, e.g., 2:3 or about 40% to about 60%. 
         [0084]    At step  620 , the sphere of neutralizer slurry is implanted into the sphere of the explosive slurry. The sphere of neutralizer slurry is implanted into substantially the center of the sphere of the explosive slurry to create a substantially uniform spherical explosive profile. In other embodiments, the shape and position of the neutralizer slurry within the sphere of explosive slurry is selected to create a non-uniform explosive profile that is not spherical. 
         [0085]    At step  622 , the volume of explosive slurry into which the sphere of neutralizer slurry was implanted is rolled again to reform a spherical shape. At step  624 , the explosive slurry is allowed to solidify and, if it is not already solidified, the neutralizer slurry within the sphere of explosive slurry is also optionally allowed to solidify and dry. The sphere comprising the solidified explosive slurry and the neutralizer slurry may then be used to form a pyrotechnic device. 
         [0086]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , one or more steps involved with constructing a preferred device is shown. At step  702 , an explosive material is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  704 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  706 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  708 , a slurry is prepared from the explosive material and the appropriate solvent or liquid. At step  710 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is chosen. At step  712 , a neutralizer slurry is prepared using the neutralizer material and proper pigmentation and solvent. At step  714 , the neutralizer slurry is rolled into a sphere. At step  716 , the neutralizer slurry is optionally allowed to at least partially solidify so that the sphere of the neutralizer slurry will maintain its geometry during subsequent processing. At step  718 , explosive slurry is applied and rolled onto the sphere of partially solidified neutralizer slurry. At step  720 , the explosive slurry is allowed to solidify and, if it is not already solidified, the neutralizer slurry within the sphere of explosive slurry is also optionally allowed to solidify and dry. The sphere comprising the solidified explosive slurry and the neutralizer slurry may then be used to form a pyrotechnical device. 
         [0087]      FIG. 8A  shows an alternate embodiment of device  824  constructed on substrate  840 . Substrate  840  is preferably paper, but may also take the form of other planar surfaces or objects. Explosive material  830  is adhered to substrate  840 . Neutralizer material  820  is adhered to both explosive material  830  and substrate  840  thereby encapsulating the explosive material and forming boundary interface  826 . Device  824  is manufactured from slurry compositions of explosive materials and neutralizer materials as will be further described. 
         [0088]    The thickness of explosive material  830  on substrate  840  is substantially uniform along the surface of substrate  840 , except at the outer edges. The thickness of neutralizer material  820  on explosive material  830  and on substrate  840  is also substantially uniform, except at the outer edges. In alternative embodiments, the thicknesses may vary. For example, when device  824  embodies a target training dummy, a thickness of explosive material  830  at substantially the center of the target training dummy may be increased and a thickness of neutralizer material  820  may be reduced to retain a similar overall thickness. In this manner, a different pyrotechnic and visual effect is achieved so that a hit substantially in the center of the target training dummy is distinguishable from a hit that is not substantially in the center of the target training dummy. 
         [0089]      FIG. 8B  shows an alternate embodiment of device  824  as a layer of neutralizer material  820  is being applied to explosive material  830 . Neutralizer material  820  is prepared in tank or hopper  852  and then applied to explosive material  830  on substrate  840 . Tank or hopper  852  includes an outlet  854  and a valve  856  at the underside of tank or hopper  852 , and outlet  854  is controlled by a valve  856 . The valve  856  can be adjusted to control the volume of the neutralizer slurry dispensed. One of the tank or hopper  852  or the substrate  840  is moved in a direction so that a controlled amount of neutralizer material  820  is applied to explosive material  830 . In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of neutralizer material  820  is substantially the same as the thickness of explosive material  830 . In alternative embodiments, the thicknesses of neutralizer material  820  and explosive material  830  may vary. 
         [0090]    Referring to  FIG. 9 , the steps involved with constructing a preferred device is shown. At step  932 , an explosive material is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  934 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  936 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  937 , a slurry is prepared from the explosive material and the appropriate solvent or liquid. At step  938 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is chosen. The neutralizer material is selected from Table 3. 
         [0091]    At step  940 , a neutralizer slurry is prepared using the neutralizer material, proper pigmentation and solvent. In a preferred embodiment, the neutralizer slurry is an embodiment of neutralizer slurry  124  of  FIG. 1B  and is prepared by placing all of the ingredients or components of neutralizer slurry into a tank or hopper in which the ingredients or components are mixed. 
         [0092]    At step  942 , the explosive slurry is applied to the substrate. At step  944 , the explosive slurry is allowed to solidify and dry. 
         [0093]    At step  946 , the neutralizer slurry is applied to the dried explosive slurry and the substrate. In a preferred embodiment, the underside of a tank or hopper, such as tank or hopper  852  of  FIG. 8B , in which the neutralizer slurry was prepared includes an outlet, such as outlet  854 , controlled by a valve, such as valve  856 . The valve can be adjusted to control the volume of the neutralizer slurry dispensed. The valve is placed over the article on which neutralizer slurry  820  is to be applied. For example, the article may comprise substrate  840  and explosive material  830  of  FIGS. 8A and 8B . After placement of the valve, the valve is actuated to dispense a selected amount of the neutralizer slurry onto the article to achieve a desired ratio between the amount of neutralizer slurry and the amount of explosive slurry on the article. 
         [0094]    At step  948 , the neutralizer slurry is allowed to solidify and dry. 
         [0095]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case a shotgun shell, is produced according to this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 10 , an article of manufacture, shotgun shell  1000 , is shown. Shotgun shell  1000  includes casing  1002  enclosed on one end by base  1004 . Primer  1006  extends through base  1004  and is positioned adjacent generally cylindrically shaped concealed amalgamated device  1008 . Concealed amalgamated device  1008  is comprised of neutralizer material  1010  separated from explosive material  1012  by boundary interface  1014 . Adjacent the explosive material and neutralizer material is wad  1016 . Shot  1018  is shown adjacent wad  1016 . Crimped closure  1017  is shown opposite base  1004 . 
         [0096]    Referring to  FIG. 11 , a flowchart showing the steps involved in loading a shotgun shell casing incorporating a preferred embodiment of the device. At step  1104 , the primer is pressed into the base. A separation barrier in the form of a cylindrical Mylar tube is placed in the casing adjacent the base at step  1106 . In a preferred embodiment, the tube is located coaxially with the primer. At step  1108 , gunpowder is loaded into the casing within the interior of the separation barrier. At step  1109 , the neutralizer material is chosen to match the color and grain size of the gunpowder. Choice of the neutralizer material includes the optional selection of a pigment or dye used to match the color of the neutralizer material to the color of the gunpowder. At step  1110 , the neutralizer material is loaded into the casing surrounding the separation barrier. At step  1112 , the separation barrier is removed. At step  1114 , a wad is loaded and pressed within the casing. At step  1116 , shot is loaded and pressed into the casing. At step  1118 , the casing is crimped closed. 
         [0097]    In use, should the shotgun shell be disassembled, the neutralizer material is automatically and undetectably mixed with the explosive material. Since the neutralizer material cannot be easily separated from the explosive material, the mixture effectively cannot be used to form an improvised explosive device. 
         [0098]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case a pyrotechnic device commonly referred to as a Roman candle, is produced according to this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 12 , an article of manufacture, Roman candle  1200 , is shown. Roman candle  1200  includes one or more: fuse  1202 , delay charges  1204  and  1212 , stars  1206  and  1214 , lift charges  1208  and  1216 , neutralizer rings  1210  and  1218 , clay plug  1220 , and paper wrapping  1222 . 
         [0099]    Fuse  1202  is connected to a first delay charge  1204 . Fuse  1202  is a burning fuse that, when lit, burns for a selected amount of time based on the length of fuse  1202  and where fuse  1202  is lit along the length of fuse  1202 . Fuse  1202  passes fire to and ignites delay charge  1204 . 
         [0100]    Delay charge  1204  is connected to fuse  1202  and packed on top of a first star  1206 , lifting charge  1208 , and shaped neutralizer ring  1210 . Delay charge  1204  comprises a pyrotechnic composition that burns at a slow constant rate that is not significantly affected by temperature or pressure and is used to control timing of the pyrotechnic device, i.e., Roman candle  1200 . After being ignited by fuse  1202 , first delay charge  1204  burns for a selected amount of time based on the composition, height, volume, and density of delay charge  1204 , and then ignites one or more of star  1206  and lift charge  1208 . Delay charge  1204  delays the time between the burning of fuse  1202  and ignition of star  1206  and lift charge  1208 . 
         [0101]    Star  1206  is positioned between delay charge  1204  and lift charge  1208 . Star  1206  comprises a pyrotechnic composition selected to provide a visual effect, including burning a certain color or creating a spark effect once first star  1206  is ignited. Star  1206  is coated with black powder to aid the ignition of star  1206  and aid the ignition of lift charge  1208 . 
         [0102]    First lift charge  1208  is positioned between first delay charge  1204  and second delay charge  1212  and is in contact with first star  1206  and first shaped neutralizer ring  1210 . First lift charge  1208  comprises an explosive material, such as granulated black powder or any compound selected from Table 5, and is used to shoot first star  1206  out of Roman candle  1200  and to ignite second delay charge  1212 . Ignition of first lift charge  1208  causes first star  1206  to shoot out of Roman candle  1200  with a velocity based on one or more of the composition, size, shape, and position of first lift charge  1208  within Roman candle  1200 . As depicted in  FIG. 12 , first lift charge  1208  is shaped substantially as an inverted frustum of a right angle cone with a diameter of the base contacting first delay charge  1204  being larger than a diameter of the base contacting second delay charge  1212 . The shape of lift charge  1208  in conjunction with the shape of neutralizer ring  1210  operate to control the blast profile of the explosion created when lift charge  1208  is ignited. The shape of an inverted frustum provides for the explosion created by the ignition of first lift charge  1208  to be directed out through the top of Roman candle  1200  while still allowing for sufficient contact area with second delay charge  1212  to pass fire onto and ignite second delay charge  1212  after first lift charge  1208  is ignited. 
         [0103]    Neutralizer ring  1210  surrounds the conically slanted side of lift charge  1208  and is positioned between delay charge  1204  and delay charge  1212 . Neutralizer ring  1210  is a ring of material comprising an inert material that, as described above, is indiscernible from the explosive material of lift charge  1208  and that, if mixed with the explosive material of lift charge  1208 , results in a composition having a substantially reduced explosiveness. Material of shaped neutralizer ring  1210  has a grain size and color matching that of the grain size and color of material of lift charge  1208  so that the interface between shaped neutralizer ring  1210  and lift charge  1208  is indiscernible. 
         [0104]    Delay charge  1212 , star  1214 , lift charge  1216 , and neutralizer ring  1218  operate in a similar fashion as delay charge  1204 , star  1206 , lift charge  1208 , and neutralizer ring  1210 , but may have the same or different compositions, sizes, shapes, positions, and geometries and provide for the same or different specific effects. 
         [0105]    Clay plug  1220  is a bottom layer of Roman candle  1200  beneath the combination of second lift charge  1216  and neutralizer ring  1218 . Clay plug  1220  prevents fire from second lift charge  1216  from escaping through the bottom of Roman candle  1200  and prevents lift charge  1216  from being ignited from below. 
         [0106]    Paper wrapping  1222  surrounds the sides of Roman candle  1200  forming a cylindrical shape. Paper wrapping  1222  protects Roman candle  1200  when not in use and acts as a muzzle to direct stars  1206  and  1214  when they are shot out of the top of Roman candle by lift charges  1208  and  1216 , respectively. 
         [0107]    Referring to  FIG. 13 , one or more steps involved with constructing a pyrotechnic device commonly referred to as a Roman candle is shown. At step  1302 , an explosive material is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use and may be selected from the explosive compounds from Table 5. At step  1304 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  1306 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  1308 , the lift charge, star and delay charge are prepared using explosive material. At step  1310 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is selected from the neutralizers listed in Table 3. At step  1312 , a neutralizer powder is prepared using the neutralizer material and proper pigmentation and solvent selected from Tables 3-4. 
         [0108]    At step  1314 , a paper tube is prepared to receive the clay plug, one or more lift charges, one or more stars, one or more delay charges and neutralizer powder. The paper tube may be placed vertically so that the materials may be introduced from the top of the tube. At step  1316 , a clay plug is inserted into the bottom of tube that directs the explosions from the lift charge out through the top of the tube. At step  1318 , a separation barrier is inserted into the tube. The separation barrier may include a slant to be slightly conical in shape so that the lift charge is formed as a frustum. At step  1320 , the lift charge is inserted into the tube inside the separation barrier, after which one or more stars are placed on top of the lift charge. At step  1322 , neutralizer powder is inserted into the tube outside of the separation barrier. The neutralizer powder has the same grain size and color as the lift charge. At step  1324 , the separation barrier is removed and the interface between the lift charge and the neutralizer is indiscernible due to the selected properties of the neutralizer powder. At step  1326 , a delay charge is inserted into the tube and packed down so that the lift charge, stars, neutralizer powder, and delay charge will not mix during subsequent handling and processing. At step  1328 , steps  1318 - 1326  are repeated for a desired number of stages for the pyrotechnic device. At step  1330 , a fuse is introduced into the tube that contacts the top-most delay charge. 
         [0109]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case a pyrotechnic assembly, is produced according to this disclosure. Referring then to  FIG. 14 , an article of manufacture, pyrotechnic assembly  1400 , is shown. Pyrotechnic assembly  1400  includes: paper  1402 , slurry  1404 , fuse  1406 , and solidified material  1408 . 
         [0110]    Paper  1402  forms an outer shell for a pyrotechnic device created from assembling pyrotechnic assembly  1400 . Prior to rolling paper  1402  to form a cylinder, slurry  1404  is placed on paper  1402 , solidified material  1408  is placed onto slurry  1404 , and fuse  1406  is positioned. After positioning slurry  1404 , solidified material  1408 , and fuse  1406  onto paper  1402 , paper  1402  is rolled to form a cylindrical pyrotechnic device. 
         [0111]    Slurry  1404  is positioned on paper  1402  between paper  1402  and solidified material  1408  prior to rolling paper  1402 . After rolling, slurry  1404  forms a substantially continuous layer around solidified material  1408 . One of slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408  comprises neutralizer material (e.g., concealed amalgamated neutralizer  104  of  FIG. 1A ) and the other of slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408  comprises explosive material (e.g., explosive composition  114  of  FIG. 1A ). After solidifying, the boundary between the material of slurry  1404  and the material of solidified material  1408  will be indiscernible upon visual inspection. The volume of slurry  1404  is sufficient so that when the material of slurry  1404  is randomly mixed with the material of solidified material  1408 , the explosiveness of the combined mixed material is substantially reduced. 
         [0112]    Fuse  1406  is positioned to pass flame to explosive material comprised by one of slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408 . Fuse  1406  contacts both slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408  so that fuse  1406  contacts both the inert material of one of slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408  and the explosive material of the other of slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408 . By contacting both slurry  1404  and solidified material  1408 , the position of fuse  1406  does not provide an indication of whether solidified material  1408  or slurry  1404  comprises explosive material in the final assembled device. 
         [0113]    In an alternative embodiment where solidified material  1408  comprises the explosive material, fuse  1406  may be positioned within and incorporated into solidified material  1408  prior to the solidification of solidified material  1408 . With fuse  1406  incorporated into solidified material  1408 , placement of solidified material  1408  also positions fuse  1406  with respect to paper  1402  of assembly  1400 . 
         [0114]    Solidified material  1408  is positioned on slurry  1404  prior to rolling paper  1402  and contacts fuse  1406 . After rolling pyrotechnic assembly  1400  into a pyrotechnic device, solidified material  1408  is located in substantially the center of the pyrotechnic device. In alternative embodiments, solidified material  1408  may be positioned away from the center of the pyrotechnic device and create a different explosion profile as compared to when the solidified material  1408  is placed in the center of the pyrotechnic device. 
         [0115]    Referring to  FIG. 15 , one or more steps involved with constructing a pyrotechnic device by rolling single portions of explosive material and neutralizer material into a cylinder is shown. At step  1502 , an explosive material is chosen from Table 5. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  1504 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  1506 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  1508 , an explosive slurry is using the explosive material and the appropriate solvent or liquid. At step  1510 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is chosen. At step  1512 , a neutralizer slurry is prepared using the neutralizer material and proper pigmentation and solvent or liquid. 
         [0116]    At step  1514 , paper is prepared for creating the pyrotechnic device. The paper is formed as a square or rectangular sheet with appropriate dimensions of thickness, length, and width to form the exterior of the pyrotechnic device. At step  1516 , a first slurry is applied to the paper. The first slurry is one or the other of the explosive slurry and the neutralizer slurry. At step  1518  and prior to introducing the second slurry to the first slurry, the second slurry is allowed to at least partially solidify to form a solidified material or paste that is thicker than the first slurry to aid further processing steps. The second slurry is different from the first slurry and is the other of the explosive slurry or the neutralizer slurry. At step  1520 , the solidified material made from the second slurry is positioned onto the first slurry. 
         [0117]    At step  1522 , a fuse is introduced between the solidified material and the first slurry so as to contact the explosive material in one or the other of the first slurry and the second slurry. In alternative embodiments, the fuse is introduced into the second slurry prior to solidification of the second slurry. At step  1524 , the paper is rolled into a cylindrical shape. The process or rolling the paper surrounds the entirety of the solidified material with the first slurry and positions the solidified material substantially in the center of the cylinder created by rolling the paper. Positioning the solidified material in the center of the cylinder gives the pyrotechnic device a substantially uniform blast profile along the circumference of the cylinder. In alternative embodiments, the solidified material is positioned off center so that the pyrotechnic device will not contain a substantially uniform blast profile along the circumference of the cylinder 
         [0118]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case a pyrotechnic assembly, is produced according to this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 16 , an article of manufacture, assembly  1600 , is shown that forms an embodiment of portion  100  of a pyrotechnic device of  FIG. 1A . Assembly  1600  includes: paper  1602 , explosive compound  1604 , and neutralizer compound  1606 . 
         [0119]    Paper  1602  is a substrate onto which explosive compound  1604  and neutralizer compound  1606  are applied. After application of explosive compound  1604  and neutralizer compound  1606  onto paper  1602 , paper  1602  is rolled from one end in direction  1608  to form a cylinder. A fuse for igniting explosive compound  1604  may be introduced to assembly  1600  before or after rolling paper  1602  into a cylinder. After assembly into pyrotechnic device, paper  1602  protects the pyrotechnic device from unwanted ignition. 
         [0120]    Explosive compound  1604  is any explosive material and is applied to paper  1602  as a paste or slurry to stick between multiple layers of paper  1602  after paper  1602  is rolled. The width of each portion of explosive compound  1604  applied to paper  1602  is substantially uniform. In alternative embodiments, the width of each portion of explosive compound  1604  applied to paper  1602  may vary along the length of paper  1602 . The overall ratio of the volume of explosive compound  1604  to the volume of neutralizer compound  1606  is such that, if explosive compound  1604  and neutralizer compound  1606  are removed from a pyrotechnic device created from assembly  1600  and mixed, then the resulting mixture would have a substantially reduced explosive effectiveness. 
         [0121]    Neutralizer compound  1606  is any neutralizer material and is also applied to paper  1602  as a paste or slurry to stick between multiple layers of paper  1602  after paper  1602  is rolled. The width of each portion of neutralizer compound  1606  applied to paper  1602  is substantially uniform and is less than the width of the portions of explosive compound  1604 . When dried, neutralizer compound  1606  has a grain size that substantially matches the grain size of explosive compound  1604 . Neutralizer compound  1606  includes pigmentation so that the color of neutralizer compound  1606  substantially matches the color of explosive compound  1604 . The boundary interface between the portions of explosive compound  1604  and neutralizer compound  1606  are indiscernible upon final assembly due to the matching grain size and color between explosive compound  1604  and neutralizer compound  1606 . 
         [0122]    In alternative embodiments, the width of each portion of explosive compound  1604  applied to paper  1602  may vary along the length of paper  1602 . 
         [0123]    Referring to  FIG. 17 , one or more steps involved with constructing a pyrotechnic device by rolling multiple portions of explosive material and neutralizer material is shown. At step  1702 , an explosive material is chosen from Table 5. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  1704 , the dry density of the explosive material is identified. At step  1706 , the color of the dried explosive material is identified. At step  1708 , a slurry is prepared from the explosive material and the appropriate solvent or liquid. At step  1710 , the neutralizer material with the identified dry density is chosen. At step  1712 , a neutralizer slurry is prepared using the neutralizer material and proper pigmentation and solvent. 
         [0124]    At step  1714 , paper is prepared as a substrate to receive the explosive slurry and neutralizer slurry. The paper is sliced into a selected length and width suitable for rolling. At step  1716 , explosive slurry and neutralizer slurry are applied to the paper in alternating portions, as shown in  FIG. 16 . The width of the portions may be uniform or vary based on the location of the portion with respect to the leading edge of the paper that gets rolled first and the trailing edge of the paper that gets rolled last. For example, portions closer to the trailing edge may have a longer width as compared to portions closer to the leading edge 
         [0125]    At step  1718 , the paper with the applied explosive slurry and neutralizer slurry is rolled into a cylindrical shape so that each portion of explosive compound contacts two portions of neutralizer compound and two layers of paper. Similarly, each portion of neutralizer compound contacts two portions of explosive compound and two layers of paper. 
         [0126]    At step  1720 , a fuse is inserted into the cylinder created by rolling the paper. The fuse is inserted so as to contact at least one portion of explosive slurry. At step  1722 , at least the explosive slurry is allowed to solidify and optionally the neutralizer is also allowed to solidify. 
         [0127]    At step  1720 , the explosive slurry is allowed to solidify as well as the neutralizer slurry. The cylindrically shaped roll comprising the solidified explosive slurry and the neutralizer slurry may then be used to form a pyrotechnical device. With the color, grain size, and dry density being substantially similar, the interfaces between portions of explosive material and neutralizer material in the rolled cylinder are indiscernible upon visual inspection and the explosive material is indistinguishable from the neutralizer material. Removal of the explosive material would also remove the neutralizer material so that attempted use of the explosive material in an improvised explosive device would mix the explosive material with the neutralizer material and reduce the effectiveness of the explosive material in the improvised explosive device. 
         [0128]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case pyrotechnic device  1800  forms, for example, an instant hit recognition flare or pyrotechnic target, and is produced according to this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 18 , an article of manufacture, pyrotechnic device  1800 , is shown that forms an embodiment of portion  100  of a pyrotechnic device of  FIG. 1A . Pyrotechnic device  1800  includes: cardboard lid  1801 , concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802 , pyrotechnic composition  1803 , imperceptible boundary layer  1804 , and shell case  1805 . 
         [0129]    Cardboard lid  1801  and shell case  1805  form an embodiment of housing  102  of  FIG. 1A . Cardboard lid  1801  is fitted to the top of shell case  1805  and presses against concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  to compact and maintain the shape and position of concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  and pyrotechnic composition  1803  within pyrotechnic device  1800 . 
         [0130]    Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  is layered on top of pyrotechnic composition  1803  and is held in place by cardboard lid  1801  and shell casing  1805 . Pyrotechnic composition  1803  is an embodiment of explosive composition  114 , is layered on top of shell case floor  1806 , and is held in place by shell casing  1805 . When concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  is mixed with pyrotechnic composition  1803  outside of pyrotechnic device  1800 , such as in an improvised explosive device, the explosive power of the resulting mixture is reduced as compared to the explosive power of pyrotechnic composition  1803 . 
         [0131]    Imperceptible boundary layer  1804  is present at the interface or junction between concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  and pyrotechnic composition  1803 . Concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  is selected, processed, and manufactured to comprise a grain shape, grain size, color, and density that substantially matches the grain shape, grain size, color, and density of pyrotechnic composition  1803  so that imperceptible boundary layer  1804  cannot be perceived upon visual inspection. 
         [0132]    Shell case  1805  comprises shell case floor  1806  and contains concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  and pyrotechnic composition  1803 . Shell case  1805  presses against concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  and pyrotechnic composition  1803  to compact and maintain the shape and position of concealed amalgamated neutralizer  1802  and pyrotechnic composition  1803  within pyrotechnic device  1800 . 
         [0133]    Referring to  FIG. 19 , the steps involved with constructing a pyrotechnic device with concealed amalgamated neutralizer as used in an instant hit recognition flare or pyrotechnic target using a shell case is shown. At step  1902 , an explosive material, also known as a pyrotechnic composition, is chosen. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use. At step  1904  the grain size of the explosive material is identified. If the explosive material contains multiple components each having different grains sizes, each grain size will be identified. At step  1906 , the color of the explosive material is identified. At step  1908 , a matching neutralizer material, also known as a concealed amalgamated neutralizer or a concealed amalgamated neutralizer component, with the identified grain size is chosen. The neutralizer material and the level of neutralization desired is chosen according to Table 1 for dry materials or Table 2 for slurries. At step  1910 , if the color of the neutralizer material does not match the explosive material, then the neutralizer material is colored to match the explosive material using one or more pigments or dyes. In a different embodiment, a charcoal dye is employed to tint the neutralizer material. At step  1912 , the explosive material is introduced into a shell case. At step  1914 , the neutralizer material is introduced into the shell case, and if necessary, the shell case is assembled. If necessary, at step  1916 , the materials introduced in the build container are compacted. At step  1918 , a cardboard lid is installed onto and fitted to the shell case. In alternative embodiments, the materials are compacted after installation of the cardboard lid instead of or in addition to being compacted prior to installation of the cardboard lid. At step  1920 , any ancillary components required for the device, such as plugs, primers, fuses, detonators, etc., are installed. 
         [0134]    In one preferred embodiment, an article of manufacture, in this case a pyrotechnic pigeon, is produced according to this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 20 , an article of manufacture, pyrotechnic pigeon  2000 , is shown that includes an embodiment of portion  100  of a pyrotechnic device of  FIG. 1A . Pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  is a target configured for target shooting. Pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  includes substrate layer  2002 , first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010 . The sizes and thicknesses of the layers are not shown to scale. In certain embodiments, pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  comprises a standard clay pigeon to which first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010  are applied. 
         [0135]    Substrate layer  2002  includes a step-shaped edge  2012  at the circumference of pyrotechnic pigeon  2000 . Step-shaped edge  2012  allows for pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  to be guided and rotated as it is launched from a clay pigeon launcher. Substrate layer  2002  acts as a substrate upon which is formed first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010 . Substrate layer  2002  contacts one or more layers of plastic material. Substrate layer  2002  comprises any clay, plastic, metal, concrete, limestone, pitch, or other material that is suitable for making a targets for clay pigeon shooting, also known as clay target shooting. 
         [0136]    First plastic layer  2004  is positioned between substrate layer  2002  and first material layer  2006 . First plastic layer  2004  protects first material layer  2006  from substrate layer  2002 . First plastic layer  2004  adheres the combination of first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010  to substrate layer  2002 . 
         [0137]    First material layer  2006  is positioned between first plastic layer  2004  and second material layer  2008 . Second material layer  2008  is positioned between first material layer  2006  and second plastic layer  2010 . 
         [0138]    When first material layer  2006  is the explosive material, second material layer  2008  is the neutralizer material. When first material layer  2006  is the neutralizer material, second material layer  2008  is the explosive material. The neutralizer material is selected and processed to have the same color, density, dry weight, and grain size as the explosive material so that the junction between first material layer  2006  and second material layer  2008  is formed as an indiscernible boundary layer. The ratio of explosive material to neutralizer material is such that, if explosive material and neutralizer material were removed from pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  and mixed, then the resulting mixture would have substantially reduced usefulness as a propellant or explosive, such as in an improvised explosive device. 
         [0139]    Second plastic layer  2010  is placed onto second material layer  2008  and substrate layer  2002 . Second plastic layer  2010  surrounds the outer edges of each of first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , and second material layer  2008 . Second plastic layer  2010  protects and supports first material layer  2006  and second material layer  2008 . Combined, first plastic layer  2004  and second plastic layer  2010  operate to seal, protect, and encapsulate first material layer  2006  and second material layer  2008  from external moisture and humidity. 
         [0140]    First plastic layer  2004  and second plastic layer  2010  may be homogeneous or heterogeneous and comprise any form of plastic, including: acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), diallyl-phthalate (DAP), epoxy resin, high impact polystyrene (HIPS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), melamine resin, phenol formaldehyde resin (PF), polyactic acid (PLA), polyamide (PA) (nylon), polybenzimidazole (PBI), polycarbonate (PC), polycyanurate, polyester (PE), polyether sulfone (PES), polyetherether ketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), urea-formaldehyde, and vulcanized rubber. In one preferred embodiment, first plastic layer  2004  comprises an acrylic resin and is enhanced for adhesive properties to ensure the combination of first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010  adheres to substrate layer  2002 . Second plastic layer  2010  is enhanced for brittleness to protect the placement and positioning of the combination of first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , second material layer  2008 , and second plastic layer  2010  on top of substrate layer  2002  during transport and handling. 
         [0141]    Referring to  FIGS. 21A to 211 ,  FIG. 21A  is a flow chart depicting steps used to create a pyrotechnic pigeon, such as pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  of  FIG. 20 , and  FIGS. 21B to 211  are cross section views of a pyrotechnic pigeon as it is being built with the steps of  FIG. 21A . 
         [0142]    At step  2102 , an explosive material is chosen to be used for the pyrotechnic pigeon. The proper explosive material will be chosen based on its intended use and may be selected from the explosive compounds from Table 5. In one preferred embodiment, explosive material includes black powder and one or more pyrotechnic stars that become visible when the pyrotechnic pigeon is hit. In another preferred embodiment, explosive material includes flash powder to create a visible flash and audible noise when the pyrotechnic pigeon is hit. 
         [0143]    At step  2104 , the properties of the explosive material are identified, which include the color, weight, density, and grain size of the explosive material in its final dry form in the pyrotechnic pigeon. 
         [0144]    At step  2106 , the explosive material is prepared for processing. In one preferred embodiment, the explosive material is formed as an explosive slurry that can be particlized or sprayed onto a surface. 
         [0145]    At step  2108 , a neutralizer material is chosen to be used for the pyrotechnic pigeon. The neutralizer material chosen has similar properties as the explosive material or can be processed to have properties that are substantially similar to the properties of the explosive material. 
         [0146]    At step  2110 , the neutralizer material is prepared for processing. If the neutralizer material chosen does not have an appropriate color, then a pigment is added to the neutralizer material that give the neutralizer material a color that is substantially the same as or is indiscernible from the color of the explosive material. In one preferred embodiment, the neutralizer material is formed as a neutralizer slurry that can be particlized or sprayed onto a surface. 
         [0147]    At step  2112 , substrate layer  2002  (shown in  FIG. 21B ) is formed. In one preferred embodiment, substrate layer  2002  is formed by compacting a mixture of pitch and pulverized limestone in a mold to form the shape of the substrate layer  2002 . In another preferred embodiment, substrate layer  2002  is a pre-manufactured clay pigeon. 
         [0148]    At step  2114 , outer guide  2130  (shown in  FIG. 21C ) is placed onto substrate layer  2002 . In one preferred embodiment, outer guide  2130  is cylindrically shaped and includes step-shaped edge  2132  that matches a portion of step-shaped edge  2012  of substrate layer  2002 . Matching step-shaped edge  2132  of outer guide  2130  to the portion of step-shaped edge  2012  of substrate layer  2002  centers and seals outer guide  2130  to substrate layer  2002  so that material applied within outer guide  2130  is appropriately placed onto substrate layer  2002  without leaking onto or reaching step-shaped edge  2012  of substrate layer  2002 . In certain embodiments, shapes other than or in addition to a step are used to match or key outer guide  2130  to substrate layer  2002 . 
         [0149]    At step  2116 , inner guide  2134  (shown in  FIG. 21D ) is placed onto substrate layer  2002  within outer guide  2130 . Inner guide  2134  is cylindrically shaped with an outer circumference that is similar to the inner circumference of outer guide  2130  so that inner guide  2134  fits within outer guide  2130  and is centered with respect to outer guide  2130  and to substrate layer  2002 . A bottom edge of inner guide  2134  contacts a top surface of substrate layer  2002  to prevent material applied within inner guide  2134  from reaching outer guide  2130  on the top surface of substrate layer  2002 . 
         [0150]    At step  2118 , first plastic layer  2004  (shown in  FIG. 21E ) is formed. In one preferred embodiment, first plastic layer  2004  is sprayed onto substrate layer  2002  within inner guide  2134 . Inner guide  2134  prevents the application of first plastic layer  2004  from reaching the inner edge of outer guide  2130 . 
         [0151]    At step  2120 , first material layer  2006  (shown in  FIG. 21F ) is formed. In one preferred embodiment, first material layer  2006  is an explosive material that is sprayed onto first plastic layer  2004  within inner guide  2134 . Inner guide  2134  prevents the application of first material layer  2006  from reaching the inner edge of outer guide  2130 . 
         [0152]    At step  2122 , second material layer  2008  (shown in  FIG. 21G ) is formed. In one preferred embodiment, second material layer  2008  is a neutralizer material that is sprayed onto first material layer  2006  within inner guide  2134 . Inner guide  2134  prevents the application of second material layer  2008  from reaching the inner edge of outer guide  2130 . 
         [0153]    At step  2124 , inner guide  2134  is removed (shown in  FIG. 21H ). Removing inner guide  2134  exposes outer edges of first plastic layer  2004 , first material layer  2006 , and second material layer  2008 . Removing inner guide  2134  also exposes the portion of the top surface of substrate layer  2002  that was covered by the bottom surface of inner guide  2134 . 
         [0154]    At step  2126 , second plastic layer  2010  (shown in  FIG. 21I ) is formed. In one preferred embodiment, second plastic layer  2010  is sprayed so that the application of second plastic layer covers second material layer  2008 , reaches the edges of first material layer  2006  and first plastic layer  2004  within outer guide  2130 , and reaches the top surface of substrate layer  2002  that was covered by the bottom surface of inner guide  2134 . Outer guide  2130  prevents the application of second plastic layer  2010  from reaching step-shaped edge  2012  of substrate layer  2002 . 
         [0155]    At step  2128 , outer guide  2130  is removed from the fully formed pyrotechnic pigeon, such as pyrotechnic pigeon  2000  (shown in  FIG. 20 ). Removing outer guide  2130  exposes the outer edge of second plastic layer  2010  and the portion of the top surface of substrate layer  2002  that was covered by the bottom surface of outer guide  2130 . 
         [0156]    It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications can be made to the embodiments disclosed and remain within the inventive concept. Therefore, this invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but is intended to cover changes within the scope and spirit of the claims.