A new breakthrough in environmentally friendly fireworks and firecrackers involves the use of sulfur-free, low-smoke materials1. Traditionally, a large amount of sulfur is used in the production of fireworks and firecrackers22. However, a research and development team in the major fireworks town of Wenjia has broken from tradition by spending six years developing "W49," a sulfur-free composite reducing agent to replace sulfur33.
Key Advantages of the "W49" Material
The "W49" composite reducing agent offers several key advantages.
Zero Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: It completely eliminates sulfur dioxide emissions444.
Improved Safety: The material significantly reduces the sensitivity of raw materials and finished fireworks to friction and impact55. It also greatly improves anti-static performance, which helps prevent safety hazards caused by static electricity during the production process666. Static electricity is considered one of the "invisible killers" that can cause accidents during the production, storage, and transportation of fireworks and firecrackers7.
Reduced Smoke and Odor: In a recent comparison, firecrackers made with "W49" produced no black smoke and had no pungent smell, while maintaining the same sound as traditional products8.
Technological Achievement: The development team screened and proportioned thousands of materials, conducting repeated experiments and trials before achieving stable production9. "W49" was registered as a scientific and technological achievement with the Hunan Provincial Department of Science and Technology in April 2024 and successfully passed a safety review in January 202510.
Broader Impact and Future Development
The development of sulfur-free, low-smoke technology is crucial for the long-term, healthy growth of the fireworks and firecracker industry11. According to Zhou Bin, the chairman of Zhengsheng New Materials who led the "W49" team, the original goal was to make fireworks safer and more environmentally friendly, allowing this ancient craft to flourish in the new era12.
Beyond "W49," Zhengsheng New Materials has also successfully developed two new types of smoke-free, dust-free spray fireworks materials, addressed the issues of smoke and dust and resulted in a cleaner and more environmentally friendly effect13. These new materials are currently being tested by several firework and firecracker manufacturers14. After a six-to-twelve-month observation period, they will be put into large-scale production15.
The city of Liuyang has already promoted the use of two types of raw materials that have achieved zero sulfur dioxide emissions, improving their environmental index16. The city council has also proposed to implement a project focused on enhancing safety, technology, cultural integration, and standards, and to promote and apply new sulfur-free, low-smoke technologies and materials to upgrade the modern fireworks industry and maintain its leading global position17.
