Chemistry of Napalm

The consistency of Napalm gel is variable and depends on many factors. However, 2-4% of Napalm gives a definitely stringy gel whereas 10-12% gives a very elastic gel which is almost solid. Napalm, while satisfactory as a thickener, is hygroscopic and also susceptible to oxidation by atmospheric oxygen resulting in a thickened gasoline with poor characteristics. In the presence of moisture, the soap may hydrolyze as shown in Equation 5.24  

Phosphorus and its compounds have also been used as incendiary agents against personnel and readily combustible materials. Burning phosphorus produces serious burns and tends to demoralize enemy troops. WP is effective against most easily combustible targets because it has a low combustion temperature but it is relatively ineffective for others. 

The performance of pyrotechnic formulations is assessed by determining various properties such as 

---