Creating Special Effects for TV and Video, 3rd Edition

Pyrotechnic and other Smokes

 

Pyrotechnic smoke is produced by igniting a slow-burning chemical mixture in a container which inhibits the rate of flame spread and ensures that the mixture receives no additional oxygen from outside. Thus, combustion is made as inefficient as possible and smoke is created. The mixture usually contains various smoke-producing agents such as naphthalene or bitumen, etc.

For smoke to be produced it is essential that the mixture does not flame. Smoke pots should not therefore be placed in proximity to anything that will catch fire, so igniting the smoke at the mouth of the pyrotechnic.

Charcoal smoke

Tablets used for the burning of incense in swinging censors for religious ceremonies can be used for smoke effects ...