
Guncotton
Guncotton, also known as nitrocellulose, is a highly flammable compound made by treating cellulose (from cotton or wood pulp) with nitric acid. It appears as a colorless, or slightly yellowish, fibrous material. Guncotton is a powerful explosive and was historically used as a propellant in firearms and artillery because it burns rapidly and releases a lot of energy. Its stability and explosive nature depend on purity and handling. Today, it’s also used in manufacturing fireworks, plastics, and lacquers, but it requires careful storage and handling due to its sensitivity to heat, friction, and static electricity.