Molecule of the Week

July 3, 2006

Antimony trisulfide

The "Chinese needle" form of antimony trisulfide produces white glittery stars in fireworks. The "dark pyro" form increases the sensitivity of flash powder and sharpens the "report" or loud boom sound effect. Antimony trisulfide should be handled with extreme care because it is toxic and very sensitive to shock or static electricity.

Copyright ©2008 American Chemical Society