pyrocellulose

explosive

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July 13, 2026

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Nitrocellulose Pyrocellulose, or guncotton, a form of nitrocellulose.

Pyrocellulose, also known as guncotton, is a highly flammable compound derived from cellulose treated with nitric acid. It is a mixture of nitric esters of cellulose and is the primary ingredient in modern gunpowder. Highly nitrated pyrocellulose is unstable and ignites easily, making it suitable for explosives, gunpowders, and solid rocket propellants.1

Moderately nitrated cellulose, sometimes called pyroxylin, is less volatile and dissolves in alcohol and ether. This form is used in paints, coatings, and nail polish. The degree of nitration determines the solubility and flammability of the final product. Pyrocellulose was also historically used to create the first man-made fibers and plastics.1

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explosive
Nitrocellulosic explosives
…relatively low nitrogen content, called pyrocellulose, because that type is quite soluble in ether–alcohol. A small amount of diphenylamine was used as a stabilizer and, after forming the grains and removing the liquid, a coating of graphite was added. The smokeless powder most widely used in the United States at…
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…relatively low nitrogen content, called pyrocellulose, because that type is quite soluble in ether–alcohol. A small amount of diphenylamine was used as a stabilizer and, after forming the grains and removing the liquid, a coating of graphite was added. The smokeless powder most widely used in the United States at…
Read More