An Introduction to Pyrotechnic Light Measurements
Abstract
Over the past several decades, there have been dramatic changes in light measurement technology. For example, Weston cells were once used to make luminous intensity measurements but have been replaced by silicon detectors with photometric filters. Visible light spectral measurements (once made with single grating spectrometers) are now measured with silicon charge coupled devices for fast spectral measurements. To develop high-performance illuminants, the pyrotechnician not only needs to understand high-temperature combustion chemistry but also needs to understand the nature of light emission and how to accurately measure and quantify emitted light. In this paper, the basic theory and practical aspects of light measurements will be discussed. Examples of experimental setups and methodologies will be described for measuring physical quantities such as luminous intensity and emissive color.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1070460
Entities
People
- Jay C. Poret
Organizations
- Picatinny Arsenal